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W O R L D M E T E O R O L O G I C A L O R G A N I Z A T I O N

COMMISSION FOR INSTRUMENTSAND METHODS OF OBSERVATION

CIMO MANAGEMENT GROUPFifteenth Session

Geneva, Switzerland

26 – 29 March 2018

FINAL REPORT

CIMO MG-15, p. i

CONTENTS

Pages

Executive summary p. ii

Agenda p. iii

General summary of the work of the meeting p. 1 – p. 20

Annexes:

Annex I List of Participants p. 1 – p. 3

Annex II International Cloud Atlas: Recommendations for Future

Work and Improvements

p. 1 – p. 3

Annex III Competency frameworks p.1 – p. 27

Annex IV Mission, Vision, Outcomes and Strategies: Future of

Environmental Measurements within WIGOS

p. 1 – p. 7

Annex V Draft New Structure for CIMO p. 1

Annex VI Action List p. 1 – p. 5

CIMO MG-15, p. ii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Fifteenth session of the CIMO Management Group (CIMO MG-15) was held from 26 to 29 March 2018, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The main purpose of the meeting was to plan for the seventeenth session of CIMO that will be held in October 2018 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

The meeting reviewed the outcomes of the work of all CIMO Expert Teams, Task Teams and Theme Leaders. It identified some urgent follow-up activities, so that relevant outcomes could be submitted for approval to the session. It also identified follow-up activities that would have to be carried out in the forthcoming inter-sessional period.

The meeting reviewed the Vision for the future of environmental measurements and agreed to use it as guiding document for finalizing and establishing its new structure. The meeting decided to propose a modification of the CIMO structure that would take into account some priority activities that would need to be addressed as a matter of urgency, by establishing relevant task teams. It also took into account the need for specific collaboration with CBS in the management of Inter-programme expert teams.

The meeting reviewed and advised on the arrangements and preparation for TECO-2018.

___________________

CIMO MG-15, p. iii

AGENDA

1. ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION1.1 Opening of the Session1.2 Adoption of the Agenda1.3 Working Arrangements for the Session

2. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE COMMISSION – EVALUATION OF PROGRESS, PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE ACTIVITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO CIMO-172.1 Report of the President2.2 OPAG In-Situ Technologies and Instrument Intercomparisons 2.3 OPAG Remote-Sensing Technologies2.4 OPAG Capacity Development and Operational Metrology 2.5 Reports of CIMO Focal Points2.6 Other activities

3. CIMO ACTIVITIES IN THE EVOLVING CONTEXT OF WMO, AND COLLABORATION WITH INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS3.1 The WMO constituent body reform and the WMO Strategic Plan3.2 Review of the Vision for the future of environmental measurements, the

current status of the WIGOS vision, and of relevant decisions of the WMO Executive Council

3.3 Cooperation with Technical Commissions, Regional Associations and relevant WMO projects/programmes

3.4 Collaboration with other international organizations

4. THE FUTURE CIMO WORKING STRUCTURE4.1 Identification and prioritization of key future activities after CIMO-174.2 Ensuring continuation of CIMO’s activities in the new WMO governance

structure4.3 Update of the CIMO Working Structure and Mechanisms

5. ISSUES RELATED TO THE PLANNING, COORDINATION AND MANAGEMENT OF COMMISSION ACTIVITIES5.1 Arrangements for CIMO-175.2 Arrangements for TECO-20185.3 Certificates and other pertinent issues

6. OTHER BUSINESS7. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION

CIMO MG-15, GENERAL SUMMARY

GENERAL SUMMARY

1. ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION

1.1 Opening of the Session1.1.1 The fifteenth session of the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation (CIMO) Management Group (MG-15) was held at the WMO headquarters in Geneva. The session was opened on Monday, 26 March 2018 at 9:00, by the president of CIMO, Prof. Bertrand Calpini. He welcomed all the participants to the meeting. The list of participants is given in Annex I.

1.2 Adoption of the Agenda The meeting adopted the Agenda for the session.

1.3 Working Arrangements for the Session The working hours and tentative timetable for the meeting were agreed upon.

2. WORK PROGRAMME OF THE COMMISSION – EVALUATION OF PROGRESS, PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE ACTIVITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO CIMO-17

2.1 Report of the President2.1.1 Prof. Calpini described the preceding two years of CIMO activity as one of notable achievements. The primary focus has been on continuing the implementation of WIGOS while better responding to the requirements of our users in an environment of rapid evolution of technologies and new data sources.

2.1.2 He spoke of the excellent work performed by the Management Group in finalizing its pathway towards CIMO’s future Roles, Mission and Vision, work very capably led by the Vice President, Dr Forgan. He expressed confidence in the commission’s ability to continue this transition towards fit-for-purpose environmental measurement and noted that it will leave CIMO well-placed to support the WIGOS vision while ensuring seamless transition to the proposed new structure of the WMO technical commissions.

2.1.3 He noted that this would be the last session of the CIMO Management Group that he would lead, after 8 years as President. He also especially noted the strong support he has received in this role from his colleagues at MeteoSwiss in advancing a number of specific fields of activity, including:

The CIMO Testbed MeteoSwiss Payerne; The ISO 28902-2 Wind Lidar Standard; The ISO Weather Radar Standard; The OSCAR web-based metadata information platform; The new edition of the International Cloud Atlas 2017; and The Solid Precipitation Intercomparison Experiment (SPICE).

2.1.4 He noted that the past two years has been a period of very horizontal leadership within CIMO, and noted that the degree of success achieved in this time of change was largely attributable to the dedication of the members of the Management Group.

2.1.5 Prof. Calpini urged the meeting participants to focus their subsequent reporting and discussion during the session, not so much on the specific achievements of the expert teams during the inter-sessional period, but more on consideration of how best to ensure ongoing achievement of CIMO’s business in the reorganized WMO technical commission structure post Cg-18.

CIMO MG-15, GENERAL SUMMARY, p. 2

2.2 OPAG In-Situ Technologies and Instrument Intercomparisons

Expert Team on Operational In-Situ Technologies (ET-OIST)2.2.1 The focus of the work of ET-OIST over the last two years was on Transitioning to AWS, the Siting Classification, and the Sustained Performance Classification.

2.2.2 The Sustained Performance Classification is now in advanced draft and ready for review by CIMO MG to decide whether to include it in the CIMO Guide. The session agreed that more work was required on the draft and that this might have to be addressed by a dedicated task team in the coming inter-sessional period in case ET-OIST would not be able to finalize it by June 2018. If the classification is finalized in due time, then it should be submitted as a decision for CIMO-17. (Action 1). The session noted that the Siting Classification has been very useful for Members, though a problem with class 4 and 5 stations is some of their operators wanting to close them as a result of their misunderstanding of the purpose of the classification scheme. Further education of senior managers is required to address this as well as further guidance on how to implement the classification to meet Member’s requests for guidance (Action 2). The meeting recognize the need to minimize the changes to the classification when it will be updated to reduce as much as possible the impact on Members which have implemented it.

2.2.3 With regard to transitioning to automation, as important as technology solutions, which are already well-covered in the guidance material, what is required by Members is guidance on how to establish networks. It was suggested that a training course might be developed on this in collaboration with CBS, perhaps by establishing an inter-commission team to address the matter (Action 3). It was suggested that PWS and CAeM might also wish to participate as an important aspect of the transition is the impact on the users of the information as some parts of the information is provided in a different manner (e.g. observers can report drifting snow, but an AWS does not) . (See §4.3.2 for further information on this.)

Expert Team on Developments in In-Situ Technologies (ET-DIST)2.2.4 ET-DIST achieved a great deal of collaborative work over the last two years period, most of which was targeted at CIMO Guide updates. Notably, no IOM reports were produced, so a stronger link with the relevant Lead Centres should be encouraged.

2.2.5 There was no progress made on soil moisture measurement due to a lack of resources and relevant expertise on the ET. This subject is of considerable interest to Members, in particular for hazards forecasting, so warrants further attention, perhaps by enlisting the help of the metrology community, GCOS, Vienna University. Mr Buyukbas informed the meeting that his service also has some expertise. It was noted that the definition of soil moisture needed to be clarified.(Action 4)

2.2.6 Regarding present weather, there is a long list of variables, some subjective and others objective. Qualitative variables, which were previously reported in alphanumeric codes, present BUFR reporting problems and this matter should be addressed in the future (Action 5).

Expert Team on Instruments Intercomparisons (ET-II)2.2.7 The work of ET-II was hampered during the last two years by a number of resignations from the membership. Had there been a face-to-face meeting of the team this inter-sessional period, and/or more regular teleconferences, better progress may have been achieved.

2.2.8 An important activity yet to be completed is updating the CIMO Guide in the light of the SPICE findings (published early in 2018). This will need to be pursued in the coming inter-sessional period. (Action 6)


2.2.9 A prioritized list of proposed future intercomparisons was presented for CIMO-MG consideration. The list included those regular regional intercomparisons being carried out by CIMO members. It was suggested that the list should include a UV filter intercomparison (Action 7).

2.2.10 Included with the list of future intercomparisons was the report of a feasibility study examining the potential for an intercomparison of thermometer and radiations shields. It was noted in the proposal that a host and sponsor for such an intercomparison had not yet been identified. The meeting agreed that without an identified sponsor, there was little scope for including such a proposal in discussion at CIMO-17.

2.2.11 The session agreed that only one international intercomparison should be taken on as a priority in the coming inter-sessional period in addition to IPC-XIII.

2.2.12 With regard to a future international upper air intercomparison, that could potentially be hosted by DWD at Lindenberg, the session was informed that it would not be possible to conduct this intercomparison before 2020. The president agreed to meet soon with key staff from DWD to ascertain the extent to which DWD would be able to support such an intercomparison. He also offered the services of Dr Hafaele from MeteoSwiss to coordinate the remote sensing component of the intercomparison.

2.2.13 The session agreed that France should be invited to provide a presentation at TECO-2018 on the feasibility study carried out on the potential for a WMO intercomparison of techniques for the detection of volcanic ash and aerosol. (Action 8) France should also be asked whether it is interested in the continuation of this project and which other interested international partners were identified.

2.2.14 The meeting was informed that China had a site for a lightning location system intercompariosn and would be wanting to take the lead for organizing such an intercomparison.

Expert Team on Aircraft-based Observations (ET-AO)2.2.15 Much of the work of this expert team has been of an on-going nature, regularly updating existing documentation. The improvement achieved during the inter-sessional period in on-board humidity measurements was commended by the session, though it was noted that further effort and support would be required before humidity sensing becomes a routine measurement on commercial aircraft. It was noted that airlines can also benefit from implementing these sensors, in particular for the detection of in-flight icing.

2.2.16 The session focused much of its discussion on the future of this expert team and discussed a proposal to unite this and the CBS ET-ABO to form a single IPET for aircraft-based observations, in preparation for the planned restructuring of WMO technical commissions at Cg-18. It was noted that two teams (one in CIMO, one in CBS) had been previously formed to enable an annual meeting of the community, as had the AMDAR Panel previously. It was agreed that a single IPET should be formed, but where it lies (whether in CIMO or CBS) should be determined by where most of the work will be done. In this regard, it was reported that recently, most of the effort has been in CBS ET-ABO, because of the collaboration getting underway with IATA, but that once that is established, after 2020, it is expected that the focus will be on the CIMO-related work on turbulence, mode-S, humidity and UAVs. The session concluded that it would be preferred to form a single IPET, and to locate it in CIMO, but that the views of the ET should be obtained before a final decision is made. The President informed the session that he had had informal discussions with the President of CBS on this matter, and that he (CBS President) had given in-principle agreement to the idea. (Action 9)

2.2.17 It was stressed that wherever the future team resides, AMDAR would require continued momentum to be applied, and cooperation with both ICAO and IATA would be essential.


2.2.18 The session agreed that one or more presentations on AMDAR at TECO-2018 would be worthwhile, perhaps on current knowledge of AMDAR temperature biases, and/or the Lufthansa collaboration on water-vapor sensors.

2.2.19 With regard to future work, it was suggested that WMO might host a conference on the use of UAVs for meteorology, and perhaps UAVs might be included in the next upper air intercomparison.

Task Team on Radiation Reference (TT-RadRef)2.2.20 The session was reminded that this team was formed to address apparent offsets between the World Radiometric Reference (WRR) and the International System of Units (SI) and between the World Infrared Standard Group (WISG) and SI. If either offset exists, WMO would need to shift its reference(s) to SI and then back-correct all the data in the radiation databases.

2.2.21 For the WRR, it is quite clear that there is an offset, but its value is not certain. Assessing the traceability to SI was done using a cryogenic radiometer, but it has some issues. There is only one cryogenic radiometer at PMOD, and were it to fail, there would be no way to recover its reference, so the TT-RadRef considered that it would be unwise to recommend a change of reference at this stage. A second instrument at least is clearly required.

2.2.22 For the WISG, everything points towards a 4-5 Wm-2 offset but much work is still to be done before a change of reference can be recommended. The Infrared Integrating Sphere (IRIS) is a relative instrument. The Active Cavity Pyrheliometer (ACP) is absolute but its base equations have been questioned and only two instruments are available, both at NREL. This is a weakness. Governance of the WISG is lacking. A new governance structure for the WISG should be drafted and will be proposed to CIMO-17. It could be similar to the governance of the WRR with an advisory group that reviews the status of the WISG/terrestrial reference at each IPgC. The meeting requested the president to invite PMOD to propose a governance structure that would be reviewed by the CIMO Management Group and subsequently submitted to CIMO-17 for approval (Action 10). The WISG is constantly measuring and is regularly compared with the PMOD blackbody. What is required is for Members to develop additional blackbodies that might be operated anywhere. There are also plans to build two new ACRs, one for Germany and one for Switzerland, and to reexamine the base equations. It is also planned to develop new instruments with different domes that might enable completely different calibration methods, enabling more robust definition of the WISG. It is likely that within four years a quantitative recommendation on infrared radiation reference will be possible.

2.2.23 BSRN had been responsible for developing the equations for the pyrgeometers and determining their measurement uncertainties. Because of the transition from ETHZ to Alfred Wegener Institute, most of the documentation is no longer available on the web. Also, the stations providing data to the BSRN database do not necessarily follow the BSRN protocol. One recommendation of the team is that CIMO takes some action to ensure that the BSRN remains a GCOS network..

2.2.24 Once the reference offsets are resolved, modification of the database can follow. This is simple in the case of the WRR, but may be complex and unclear in the case of the WISG, since the equations currently in use for the calibration of pyrgeometers may also require modifications. However, there are solutions and these will be worked on during the coming inter-sessional period.

2.2.25 One thing that is clear from the work of TT-RadRef is that there is clear interest from the metrology community in solar radiation measurements and the metrology institutes recognize that WMO is the right place to hold solar and terrestrial radiation standards.


2.3 OPAG Remote Sensing Technologies

Expert Team on Operational Remote-Sensing Technologies (ET-ORST)2.3.1 Much of the report from the OPAG Chair on the activities of ET-ORST concerned the work performed in China recently regarding its weather radar network. It was suggested that this material be considered later in the meeting when the work of IPET-OWR would be considered, since that team now has responsibility for these matters.

2.3.2 The expert team has recently completed an update for the CIMO Guide of the chapter on Special Profiling Techniques for the Boundary Layer and The Troposphere, which contains a completely rewritten section on radar wind profilers and an updated reference list. The session agreed that this should be submitted to the WMO secretariat, which would arrange for it to be reviewed by the CIMO Editorial Board. (Action 11)

2.3.3 ISO/TC 146/SC 5 Working Group 8 has established a team to develop a standard on radar wind profilers, after 12 National Standardization Institutes voted in favor of such an activity. A first meeting has been held in February 2018 in Berlin. Volker Lehmann was appointed as convener.

2.3.4 The session discussed the difficulty being experienced in obtaining global lightning location information of sufficient accuracy, and agreed that this would likely remain a challenging issue in years to come.

2.3.5 The report of the OPAG Chair recommended establishment in China of three new CIMO Testbeds. The first of these is the comprehensive test site in Changsha, Hunan Province, which is mainly for ground-based remote sensing. The second is the marine meteorological comprehensive test site in Bohe, Guangdong Province, and third is the lightning detection and verification test site in Conghua, Guangdong Province. The meeting advised that a new call for CIMO Testbed and Lead Centres would be made soon and that CMA could respond via the established process if it wishes to put forward these three sites for consideration.

2.3.6 The OPAG Chair also indicated that, should CIMO decide to hold an intercomparison of GPS receivers, China would offer to host it.

2.3.7 The expert team has recommended the CIMO MG examine the need for a continuation of ET-ORST in its present form for the coming inter-sessional period, noting that, with the formation of IPET-OWR, many of ET-ORST’s previous terms of reference (those related to weather radars) no longer apply to this expert team.

Expert Team on New Remote-Sensing Technologies (ET-NRST)2.3.8 ET-NRST has completed most of the work in its work plan during the intersessional period. This included an IOM report and draft updated text for the CIMO Guide on GNSS and on passive microwave profilers, completion of the WMO/ISO standard on Doppler wind lidars, and participation in a team investigating the feasibility of an intercomparison of aerosol and volcanic ash detection and profiling techniques.

2.3.9 An observation made by the OPAG Chair is that the team could improve communication with the WMO community by regularly reporting its progress, perhaps by establishing a webpage on the CIMO website. There is also room for improvement in the links between the expert team and relevant TB/LCs. The WMO secretariat agreed to ensure that this is followed up via exploration of the potential for using the new WMO website, or perhaps facebook, for this purpose, or alternatively with the help of an outside sponsor hosting a blog (Action 12).


Theme Leader on Radio-Frequency Protection (TL-RFP)2.3.10 The agenda for WRC-19 contains 12 items of relevance to WMO. While the TL has been very actively involved in the work of CBS SG-RFC, reporting back to CIMO as TL-RFP has been limited.

2.3.11 The task of ET-ORST related to development of improved guidance for Members on how to avoid weather radars being blocked by wind turbines has been taken over by IPET-OWR and that team is working on this, but the same issue for RWPs needs to be tackled by ET-ORST (Action 13).

2.3.12 CIMO has also been requested by SG-RFC to define the bandwidth required for radiosonde operations. This item has been on the agenda for several years now, but because it requires consideration not only of the bandwidth required for an individual radiosonde to operate, but also of operational radiosonde schedules, re-release policies and network spacing, it is more of a matter for CBS than for CIMO and CIMO lacks the expertise required in these areas to ascertain the overall bandwidth requirements. Perhaps the problem can be better addressed once the restructure of the technical commissions has occurred (Action 14).

2.3.13 WMO carries only observer status at WRC so has no vote: it is the Members themselves who have voting power. Hence it is recommended that at CIMO-17, all Members be urged to provide strong support for WMO’s position on the 12 agenda items of relevance at WRC-19 (Action 15).

Inter-Programme Expert Team on Operational Weather Radars (IPET-OWR)2.3.14 Thus far, while it has not been in existence for long, the formation of IPET-OWR has been particularly successful and should serve as a good template for future collaborative work between CIMO and CBS. In view of its initial success, the session recommended that IPET-OWR is continued through the coming inter-sessional period.

2.3.15 With regard to the soon to be published Part I of the WMO/ISO standard on weather radars, WMO participation in this was very successful, first in terms of separating the guidance on infrastructure requirements (Part I) from the hydrological service application requirements (Part II to come), but also in terms of having a good deal of influence on the content of the document which serves well to provide guidance on best practice with respect to radar hardware requirements without hampering future innovation potential.

2.3.16 Part II of the radar standard is now under discussion. The session recommended that IPET-OWR continues to participate on behalf of WMO, to ensure that the best guidance material is included, whilst also ensuring that future development of automated application software systems is not hampered. One concern is that the standard may attempt to cover too much; not only hydrological applications but also weather applications. Notwithstanding this, the Management Group decided that WMO should continue to participate, noting that WMO participation can be withdrawn at any stage, should the standard develop in a direction other than that WMO can support.

2.4 OPAG Capacity Development and Operational Metrology

Expert Team on Operational Metrology (ET-OpMet)2.4.1 The president commended the achievements of ET-OpMet during the inter-sessional period, noting that the collaboration of experts from the metrology community, triggered by Euramet’s MeteoMet project in 2012, had significantly strengthened this expert team (and others) and contributed to their achievements.

2.4.2 It was noted that with the conclusion of MeteoMet2 in 2017, the focus of the NMIs has now switched to Euramet EMPIR, which is more concerned with quantification of the uncertainties associated with ECVs, hence a strengthening collaboration with the GAW and climate communities, rather than with CIMO, per se. CIMO should re-engage with the NMIs


and with Euramet and express its hope that the close collaboration with CIMO can also continue (Action 16). (See also §3.4.10 below.)

2.4.3 Two documents were submitted to the session for consideration. One contained draft revised Terms of Reference for RICs, the other described a proposed process for the formal designation, supervision and reconfirmation of RICs.

2.4.4 The meeting recognized that CIMO currently does not have the formal mandate to assess potential and existing RICs though this requires technical expertise. In order for the proposed designation and reconfirmation process to work, it is essential that Regional Associations can only be allowed to designate RICs if they have been positively advised on their capabilities.

2.4.5 Indeed the proposed process would not be sustainable if there would not be an obligation for a Regional Association to follow the proposed RIC designation process (which first requires CIMO to confirm that a potential RIC satisfies the specified capability requirements for a RIC before the RA can approve the designation of the RIC). The session requested the WMO secretariat to draft a recommendation for EC to give the authority and responsibility to CIMO to carry out the evaluation of RICs. (Action 17) In case of EC approval, the proposed processes could be submitted to CIMO-17 for approval.

2.4.6 The meeting recognized that the proposed RIC designation process would be much simpler and faster for a candidate that has ISO17025 accreditation. It is therefore strongly encouraged that candidate RICs submits their proposals once they are accredited. Where an applicant laboratory already has ISO 17025 accreditation, the CIMO approval process can be quite simple and straightforward. However, where an applicant laboratory does not already have this accreditation, the audit process can be costly and time consuming for the CIMO experts involved. Some concern was also expressed with the annual reporting requirement for RICs: it was suggested that a yearly reporting might be excessive and put too great a burden on the RICs.

2.4.7 The session agreed that an inter-laboratory intercomparison involving RAs I, III and IV should be carried out.

CIMO Editorial Board (EdBd)2.4.8 All tasks assigned to the CIMO EdBd for the intersessional period have been completed.

2.4.9 In response to the expressed intention of GCW to include in the CIMO Guide guidance on cryospheric observations, the meeting discussed changing the title of the WMO Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO, No. 8) (both GCW and GAW have voiced concern with the somewhat narrow term ‘meteorological’ in the title). Some concern was also expressed in regard to the use of the term ‘observations’ in the title, when, with the current trend towards automation, ‘measurements’ is becoming a more appropriate term. The session decided to change the title to Guide to Instruments and Methods of Observation. The secretariat was requested to inform GCW that CIMO will welcome the inclusion of a new section for the CIMO Guide on cryospheric observations, and that the name of the guide will be changed to remove the word ‘Meteorological’.

2.4.10 The session agreed with a proposal to rename the four ‘Parts’ of the CIMO Guide to ‘Volumes’, to make the new contribution from GCW a independent Volume on the measurement of cryospheric variables and to update the CIMO Guide to a new edition containing the substantial changes made since the 2014 edition. The Secretariat was requested to prepare a CIMO-17 recommendation on all these matters. (Action 18)

2.4.11 The session was advised that new nominations of experts to serve on CIMO expert teams in the coming intersessional period would be sought from PRs prior to CIMO-17 and that new nominations for the CIMO EdBd would be welcomed. The session agreed to add Dr


van der Meulen (CIMO representative on the WIGOS Editorial Board) as an Associate Member of the CIMO EdBd to ensure close collaboration between the two editorial bodies.

2.4.12 It was noted that draft revised guidelines had been used for the preparation of the new material to be included in the 2018 edition of the CIMO Guide: the session approved these new guidelines, subject to changing ‘Guide to Observations’ to either ‘CIMO Guide’ or the new full title, Guide to Instruments and Methods of Observation (Action 19).

Theme Leader on Radiosonde Performance Monitoring (TL-RPM)2.4.13 The meeting was informed of the recent sad death of Dr Alexander Kats, who had served diligently in the TL-RPM position for many years and performed an invaluable service to CIMO in this role.

2.4.14 The session agreed on the need to retain the position, in view of the value to Members that it serves, particularly the developing countries. Dr Koldaev offered to explore the potential for Roshydromet to take on the task again, as it had through Dr Kats, since the Central Aerological Laboratory has a work unit that performs this task routinely. He noted, however, that fluency of communication in English may not be as good as that of Dr Kats. Dr Koldaev suggested that CIMO could write to the PR of the Russian Federation after June 2018 to formally request Roshydromet to continue fulfilling the role (Action 20). It was also noted that in the future this role should be taken on by the Regional WIGOS Centres.

2.4.15 On a related matter, there was some discussion of the loss, over the last several years, of CIMO expertise in radiosondes, yet CIMO Members regularly need advice on these systems. It was agreed to all effort should be made to rebuild CIMO’s expertise on radiosonde systems for the coming intersessional period. The proposed future upper air intercomparison may provide the opportunity to identify and recruit such expertise (Action 21).

Task Team on the International Cloud Atlas (TT-ICA)2.4.16 The President expressed his sincere thanks on behalf of CIMO to the members of TT-ICA, and to the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) in particular, for the invaluable role they played in developing the very successful web-based version of the International Cloud Atlas, which was publicly released on World Meteorological Day 2017.

2.4.17 Since then TT-ICA has continued to refine the atlas based on public feedback and is now close to finalizing it. TT-ICA has provided a list of detailed suggestions for future improvement of the atlas (Annex II). Amongst the suggestions from TT-ICA was establishment of a long-term process for ensuring maintenance of a mechanism enabling feedback from users of the ICA to WMO to be considered when a future update of the ICA will be envisaged. The session agreed that the current arrangement whereby feedback related to the website itself is directed to HKO web experts should continue, but that feedback of a technical nature should continue to be redirected to the WMO IMOP secretariat, who would redirect it either to a CIMO cloud expert (for matters of a technical nature) or to a member of the CIMO Editorial Board (for suggestions for improvement of the ICA), who would be responsible for archiving all those suggestions, pending the next revision. (Action 22)

2.4.18 The session was informed that plans were in place to translate the ICA into all six WMO languages and that work is underway to produce an e-book of the ICA, from which it will be possible to print hard copies of the atlas.

2.4.19 With respect to the subsequent development of cloud observation training tools utilizing the ICA, the session agreed that, as agreed with ETR in 2011 prior to development of the ICA, this is primarily ETR’s responsibility. The meeting was informed though, that several members of TT-ICA have expressed interest in assisting in this subsequent work, should their assistance be welcomed. (Action 23)


Task Team on Competencies (TT-Comp)2.4.20 TT-Comp completed its work efficiently and effectively during 2016. The President expressed his appreciation to the team for the excellent results it had achieved.

2.4.21 The team developed four sets of draft competencies, for Observations, Instrumentation, Calibration (based on the draft competencies for calibration prepared by ET-OpMet) and Network and Programme Management. The latter draft, which concerned an area jointly covered by CBS, was referred to CBS for its agreement. It was considered by ICT-IOS-9, which requested CIMO to finalize and publish the document subject to any comments from ICT-IOS members. The four sets of competencies were then reviewed by ETR and a number of RTCs whose comments were used in parallel with those of CBS ICT-IOS to finalize the documents.

2.4.22 The session endorsed the four documents as provided in Annex III and requested the WMO secretariat to have them included in the CIMO Guide as a new chapter on Competencies and to submit them to ETR for the high level competencies to be included in the WMO Technical Regulations (Action 24).

2.5 Reports of CIMO Focal Points (FPs)

CIMO Focal Point on Climate Observations and Services2.5.1 The FP noted that he had only been able to provide limited value to CIMO in this role, because of the large number of independent meetings held by the climate community during the period and his limited ability to attend these meetings. He suggested that better value might be achieved from the establishment of a new mechanism by the PTCs. The FP had been able to join a climate blog and monitor activities. He noted that most of the discussion had been on cheap raingauges. There was no significant change in direction within the climate community regarding measurements.

CIMO Focal Point for the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High Mountain Observations, Research and Services (EC-PORS)2.5.2 The FP reported on the Seventh Session of EC-PHORS, at which five key initiatives were discussed (AntON, Polar Regional Climate Centres and Outlook Forums, GCW, High Mountain activities and GIPPS). The Panel agreed on the definition of high mountains (the ‘Third Pole’) as ‘“Mountain areas, where seasonal or perennial cryosphere is present and poses potential and serious risks to society related to water security and disaster resilience”.

2.5.3 The FP advised that he had experienced difficulty obtaining advance notice of scheduled meetings or documentation related to these meetings, so had been unable to play an effective role, suggesting that a better mechanism for ensuring connectivity between CIMO and ECPHORS should be found.

CIMO Focal Point on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)2.5.4 The DRR Programme is WMO’s contribution to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which is managed by UNISDR. Although communication between CIMO and the other technical commissions on this topic has been good, the requested input from CIMO is very limited, to realtime reporting technology for sustainable observing systems, capable of observing in harsh environments and withstanding severe weather. How CIMO can assist with the development of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems is not yet clear.

2.5.5 The FP proposed that the position be continued but noted that it requires stronger support from the relevant teams of the commission in addressing issues of importance to DRR, particularly that of observing equipment operation in harsh and extreme environments.


CIMO Focal Point on Gender Issues.2.5.6 The FP reported that the gender balance at WMO has improved during the intersessional period. Within CIMO it has also improved but still has further to go. CIMO-17, with the selection of a new Management Group and a renewed call for experts to serve on expert teams, provides an excellent opportunity to recruit more talented women to CIMO’s ranks. In the meantime MG members are encouraged to identify prospective female experts and encourage them to become involved in CIMO activities, with a view to recruiting them for the coming intersessional period (Action 25).

2.6 Other activitiesReview of Testbeds and Lead Centres2.6.1 The session was presented with an analysis of the recent performance of the Testbeds (TB) and Lead Centres (LC) based on the individual biennial reports each submitted to the WMO secretariat in 2018.

2.6.2 The session was informed that only two of the nine centres had developed a twinning activity with a companion site in a developing country, suggesting that this is not seen as a high priority activity at most sites.

2.6.3 Shortcomings were noted in the performance of the two centres in Korea (Boseong and Chupungnyeong). Apart from a single poster presentation at TECO-2016, neither centre has had any collaboration with the relevant CIMO expert team(s), and their only published papers are unavailable in any of the WMO languages. The WMO secretariat was requested to contact each centre and encourage them to publish their results in English as well as Korean, improve their collaboration with the relevant CIMO expert teams and to publish results as full TECO papers and/or IOM reports (Action 26).

2.6.4 The performance of the remaining centres has met the expectations of the Management Group, with some performing exceptionally well in their role as CIMO TB/LC.

2.6.5 A recommendation that all the existing TB/LC retain their designation was approved by the session and the secretariat was requested to acknowledge in the CIMO-17 documentation that the existing TB/LC designations would be maintained (Action 27).

2.6.6 With regard to new nominations for TB/LC, applications had been received in 2016 from the Netherlands and from Kazakhstan.

2.6.7 The Netherlands had been requested to provide additional information regarding their application, to which they have responded satisfactorily. The session requested the WMO secretariat to draft a letter to the PR of Netherlands advising that the CIMO Management Group had approve the designation of the Cabauw Experimental Site for Atmospheric Research as a CIMO Testbed (Action 28).

2.6.8 The nomination from Kazakhstan for a TB/LC at Almaty was judged by the fourteenth session of the CIMO Management Group to describe a centre more suited to nomination as a RIC. The session reminded the WMO secretariat to draft a letter informing the PR of Kazakhstan of this and suggesting that the Almaty centre might instead be nominated for designation as a RIC, by submission of a nomination by the PR to its Regional Association by the normal process (Action 29).

2.6.9 Several editorial changes to the TB/LC reporting form were proposed, all of which were accepted by the session. The WMO secretariat was requested to implement the changes (Action 30).

Report on TECO-2016 2.6.10 The session was informed that TECO-2016, held in Madrid, Spain, from 27 to 30 September 2016, had been a very successful conference. Held in conjunction with Meteorological Technology World Expo 2016, the second International Workshop on


Metrology for Meteorology and Climate (MMC-2016) and the first International Forum of Users of Satellite Data Telecommunication Systems (SatCom-2016), the conference attracted approximately 400 participants who presented 47 oral presentations and 207 poster papers.

2.6.11 A feedback survey indicated that the large majority of participants found the conference to be very worthwhile, of the right duration (4 days, though it is noted that actual attendance was down on the last day) and appreciated that it was held in conjunction with MTWE 2016. Better treatment of posters (dedicated poster viewing time, more space and light in poster area, closer amenities) and a less noisy environment were identified as areas for improvement. The feedback also suggested room for improvement in the way the discussion sessions were held.

Report on ICAWS-20172.6.12 The International Conference on Automatic Weather Stations in 2017 (ICAWS-2017) was held in Offenbach am Main, Germany, from 24 to 26 October 2017, with attendance of approximately 100 participants. The meeting was very successful. Most participants found it well worthwhile and of about the right length. Key suggestions for improvement were inclusion of more manufacturers and holding it closer to developing countries. The participants expressed consensus for holding another similar event in 2019. The meeting expressed great appreciation to Germany for hosting the conference.

2.6.13 A key message received at the event was that many of the audience are keen to use low-cost AWS for some of their activities. The risk of this is that they may be used to replace high quality instruments altogether. Nonetheless, the demand exits and CIMO should assess and provide guidance on these low-cost devices (Action 31). It was also proposed that a standard for testing AWS performances could be developed in the future. Possibly in collaboration with ISO.

2.6.14 Regarding a follow-up conference, the session agreed to leave this for the next inter-sessional period, and that a Member country should be invited to take a lead on hosting and organizing it. In this context, it was also recalled that the incentive for organizing such a conference is also largely based on the request of Members for more guidance/training on AWSs.

Report on AWS Specifications2.6.15 The meeting was informed that Dr Doug Body, a seconded expert from Australia, had spent the latter part of 2017 in the WMO Secretariat working on the AWS tendering documentation developed by HMEI, and that the three documents are now ready for testing. The Management Group expressed great appreciation to Dr Body and Australia for this support.

2.6.16 The session agreed that the draft documentation should now be made available on the WMO website and WMO Departments, interested Members, the World Bank and HMEI be invited to use the information for the preparation of AWS tenders and provide feedback on its utility as soon as possible to CIMO, with suggestions for improvement (Action 32).

2.6.17 Dr Body has indicated that, subject to support for his further involvement from his organization (which appears to be receptive to the idea), he would be willing to then use the feedback to further improve the documentation.

3. CIMO ACTIVITIES IN THE EVOLVING CONTEXT OF WMO, AND COLLABORATION WITH INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

3.1 The WMO constituent body reform and the WMO Strategic Plan3.1.1 The session was informed of the development of the WMO Strategic and Operational Plan and the planned constituent body reform, which will most likely see, after Cg-17, a restructuring of the technical commissions into two ‘super-commissions’, one for


Infrastructure and Information Management, the other for Applications and Services. The former will likely contain four Standing Committees, with one on Methods of Observation and Instrumentation. It is likely that most of the current role that CIMO plays will be continued by this Standing Committee.

3.1.2 Dr Wenjian Zhang, the WMO Assistant Secretary General ASG addressed the meeting regarding the latest developments in the plan for restructure of the commissions. He informed the meeting that there appears to be consensus on the formation of the commission on Infrastructure and Information Management. He suggested that there had been some opposition expressed to the formation of a single commission for Applications and Services and that three separate services commissions may be adopted instead, for Weather, Water and Climate, respectively. The danger of this was that these commissions may push to retain responsibility for their own measurements rather than have it transferred to the Infrastructure and Information Management commission. Notably, JCOMM has agreed that all measurements should be the responsibility of the Infrastructure and Information Management commission. There appears to be recognition that the responsibility for technical issues should remain under the technical commissions, rather than the Technical Advisory Committee. He suggested that the TAC would ideally serve as a forum to allow for dialogue with the WMO key technological bodies. The TAC would be chaired by the President of WMO, some technically knowledgeable EC members, and TC presidents. It would also be the forum in which to engage with the co-sponsored bodies, such as GCOS.

3.1.3 Dr Zhang informed the meeting that there would be relatively little reorganization of the Regional Associations, but WMO would endeavor to establish a more effective matrix structure, with the regional association teams being composed from members of the technical commission teams.

3.1.4 Further information on the WMO Strategic Plan 2020-2023 can be found at:

3.1.5

3.1.6 https://www.wmo.int/pages/about/documents/Decision65_EC- 69_PreparationofWMOStrategicPlan2020-2023.pdf

and the outcomes of the EC-WG-SOP session held in Geneva from 11-13 April 2018 will be available in due course at https://www.wmo.int/pages/about/Reports_WGSOP.html.

3.2 Review of the Vision for the future of environmental measurements, the current status of the WIGOS vision, and of relevant decisions of the WMO Executive CouncilMission, vision, outcomes and strategies for the future of environmental measurements within WIGOS3.2.1 The document “Mission, vision, outcomes and strategies for the future of environmental measurements within WIGOS” was drafted by the CIMO Management Group, at its fourteenth session (Offenbach, Germany, 4-8 April 2016), implementing an agnostic approach to how the vision could be implemented structurally, and aiming at overall enhancement of collaboration and cooperation in promoting the role of measurements.

3.2.2 The vision was presented to CIMO TECO-2016 (Madrid, Spain) and also shared with the presidents of other WMO Technical Commissions, Regional Associations and with the participants of the Workshop on the Vision for WIGOS in 2040 (18-20 October 2016, Geneva). Lately, the vision was thoroughly revised and updated at the CIMO Strategic Management meeting in Geneva in June 2017, taking into account comments received from the presidents of technical commissions, the WIGOS vision document and the context of the WMO constituent body reform. The most recent version of the vision, as agreed at the CIMO Strategic Management meeting and minor later amendments, is available at Annex IV.

3.2.3 The session adopted the current version of the document and was informed that it will be presented for approval at CIMO-17 in Amsterdam in October 2018 (Action 33).

https://www.wmo.int/pages/about/Reports_WGSOP.html


Vision for WIGOS in 20403.2.4 The “Vision for the Global Observing System in 2025” was adopted at the sixty-first session of the WMO Executive Council in 2009. A need for updating this document initiated in 2015 the development of vision for satellite component and, one year later, a vision for the surface-based component of WIGOS. A drafting group led by the ICG-WIGOS Co-Chairs and supported by the lead authors of the surface- and space-based contributions, integrated both visions into an overall draft “Vision for WIGOS in 2040”. The CIMO Strategic Management Meeting (June 2017) had provided feedback on how to improve it. The draft document of the WIGOS vision has been constantly refined, aiming at its final approval by the eighteenth World Meteorological Congress in 2019.

3.2.5 The current version of the Vision for WIGOS in 2040 (Draft 1.3, February 14, 2018) consists of three chapters:

Introduction, purpose and scope; The space-based observing system components of WIGOS in 2040; The surface-based observing system components of WIGOS in 2040.

3.2.6 The document is still under development so further changes are expected, but it is not possible to anticipate what changes might be made at this stage. Nonetheless, it is clear that the WIGOS Vision, while of somewhat different form to the CIMO Vision, is not inconsistent with it.

WMO Executive Council decisions and resolutions of relevance3.2.7 The sixty-eighth session of the WMO Executive Council (EC-68) was held from 15 to 24 June 2016, in Geneva, Switzerland. The adopted decisions relevant to the Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme were:

Decision 34 (EC-68) – Approval of the new edition of the International Cloud Atlas (WMO-No. 407): EC authorized the President of WMO to approve the draft text of the revised Atlas on behalf of the Council, subject to no objections to the draft text being expressed by Members by the time of expiry of the review period;

Decision 35 (EC-68) – Inter-programme Expert Team on Operational Weather Radars; EC authorized the president of CIMO to establish, in consultation with the president of CBS, an Inter-Programme Expert Team on Operational Weather Radars.

3.2.8 The sixty-ninth session of the WMO Executive Council (EC-69) was held from 10 to 17 May 2017, in Geneva, Switzerland. The adopted decisions and resolutions of particular relevance to the Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme and to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System were:

Decision 34 – Translation of the International Cloud Atlas: The Secretary-General was requested to arrange for translation of the Atlas into official WMO languages.

Decision 35 – Update of the Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation: The Secretary-General was requested to update the CIMO Guide with the WMO/ISO standard: Ground-based remote sensing of wind by heterodyne pulsed Doppler lidar, in all official WMO languages.

Decision 36 – Discontinuation of the concept of Regional Standard Barometer: EC-69 agreed to discontinue the concept of Regional Standard Barometer and requested CIMO to update the CIMO Guide and other relevant WMO guidance and regulatory documents, ensuring their consistency.

3.2.9 Additional decisions of relevance to the Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme and to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System were:

Decision 21 (EC-69) — Regional Basic Observing Network;


Decision 22 (EC-69) — Vision for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System in 2040;

Decision 23 (EC-69) — Standardization of observing systems installed on ships: Decision 27 (EC-69) — Developing the WIGOS “Standardization of Observations”

Reference Tool (SORT); Decision 30 (EC-69) — Guidance on establishing Regional WIGOS Centres (RWCs)

in Pilot Phase; Decision 31 (EC-69) — Indicators for monitoring the progress in the WIGOS national

implementation; Decision 32 (EC-69) — Way forward for transitioning WIGOS from the current project

structure into the WMO programmatic structure; Decision 68 (EC-69) — WMO Constituent Body Reform.

3.2.10 EC-69’s WIGOS-related resolutions were:

Resolution 1 (EC-69) — Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160), Section 2 and Section 8;

Resolution 2 (EC-69) — Initial Version of the Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System;

Resolution 3 (EC-69) — Revised Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544) and Guide to the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 488);

Resolution 5 (EC-69) — Guide to Aircraft-Based Observations; Resolution 6 (EC-69) — Establishment and Designation of the WMO Global Data

Centre for Aircraft-Based Observations.

Additional information on the substance of these decisions and recommendations are available in the reports of the Executive Council meetings.

3.3 Cooperation with Technical Commissions, Regional Associations and relevant WMO projects/programmes3.3.1 The session observed that collaboration between CIMO and both the Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology (CAeM) and the Commission for Climatology (CCl) had diminished over the years and requires boosting. Late in the 20 th century, several intercomparisons arose from requests from CAeM, whereas recently, apart from the current proposal for an intercomparison of volcanic ash and aerosol detection techniques, there has been little collaboration, despite a gradual decline in expertise on observations in both CAeM and ICAO. CCl collaboration is also important, since the climate dataset will be affected by the advent of new observations technologies, yet CCl on one hand still relies on classical observations for its data analysis, and on the other hand is interested in the use of modern technologies, such as weather radars, lightning detection systems, and more.

3.3.2 The need for CIMO to strengthen its ties with the Regional Associations was also noted, particularly in regard to the RICs.

Collaboration with GCW3.3.3 The session expressed its appreciation to GCW for offering to include its guidance material in the CIMO Guide.

3.3.4 A second area of good collaboration between CIMO and GCW relates to SPICE. While SPICE itself was concerned with the observing instruments and their performance, it recommended investigation into how the data from those instruments is being used in applications. This is part of the core focus of GCW and GCW will follow-up these recommendations.

3.3.5 GCW has a snow watch team that is dealing with snow depth and snow cover. It has developed Terms of Reference for its work on snow cover, which have been reviewed by the WMO secretariat on behalf of CIMO. The session agreed that it would be beneficial to


implement a similar collaboration with regard to snow depth, with participation from both communities.

3.3.6 A third area of possible future collaboration is in the development of a common WMO-ISO standard on snow depth sensors (see below §3.4.5).

3.4 Collaboration with other international organizationsInternational Organization for Standardization (ISO)3.4.1 The session was joined by Dr Tomasso Abrate to consider CIMO views to a number of proposed ISO standards in the hydrology area (handled by ISO TC113 or ISO TC146/SC5).

3.4.2 ISO NP 23350: Precipitation measuring devices: This links to the CIMO Guide and Guide to Hydrological Practices. It covers TBRGs only but should include weighing gauges. It is currently too broad and could be divided into several parts. The subject is already well covered in CIMO Guide and IOM reports, so the development of this standard is not supported by CIMO MG. Also, currently, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) is in the approval stage of a standard “Hydrometry - Measurement requirements and classification of rainfall intensity measuring instruments”. The meeting recommended that it would be better to await the completion of the CEN standard prior to engaging on the development of ISO 23350 and to consider the CEN standard in framing ISO 23350.

3.4.3 ISO 23334: Density of precipitation stations: Though this standard is not precisely in the area of responsibility of CIMO, the meeting felt that the benefits of this standard to WMO are not clear. A potential conflict with WMO existing guidance (OSCAR requirements) is envisaged. The proposal originated in Korea so the WMO secretariat was requested to approach the Chupungnyeong Lead Centre for an explanation of the rationale for this standard (Action 34). The session decided not to engage in the development of this standard at this stage.

3.4.4 ISO 23410: Reference raingauge pit: This is a continuation of the Vigna di Valle intercomparison and is a copy of the already-published CEN standard. The session agreed to contribute to its development as a common WMO/ISO standard.

3.4.5 ISO 23435: Snow depth sensors: This is more to do with atmospheric pollution in snow.. CIMO Management Group expressed interest for collaboration: it should be developed as a common WMO-ISO standard to ensure it is consistent with the CIMO Guide and the SPICE outcomes.

3.4.6 The session also considered a number of standards either recently published, under development or proposed by ISO in the meteorology area (ISO TC146/SC5):

ISO 19926-1: Weather radar – Part I: This common WMO/ISO standard, is in the final review/approval stage.

ISO 19926-2: Weather radar – Part II: This project is on hold. ISO would like to develop it as a common WMO-ISO standard. IPET-OWR will consider this in May 2018.

ISO 23032: Radar wind profiler: This standard, just getting underway with Dr Volker Lehmann as convenor and will be developed as a Common WMO/ISO standard, as already recommended by the CIMO Management Group.

ISO 23436: Test methods for visibility sensors: This standard is relevant to CAeM and ICAO. The title appears to a problem as the use of the term ‘accuracy’ is inappropriate and conflicts with other ISO documents. Current work is underway on an IOM report on calibration of vismeters. Further review by CIMO MG is required (Action 35).

ISO 28902-2:2017 and CIMO Guide 2014 Edition, Updated in 2017: Pulsed Doppler wind lidar (Part II): This has now been approved and published as a common WMO/ISO standard.


ISO 28902-4: Particle backscatter lidar: CIMO wishes this to be developed as a common WMO/ISO standard. The session recommended that the Secretary-General of WMO officially informs ISO of this (Action 36).

ISO 9060: Solar radiation instruments: HMEI has expressed concerns that some of the proposed modifications may conflict with the CIMO Guide and not be in the best interests of the meteorological user community, but resistance is being experienced to all attempts to modify it to bring it more into line. The meeting thanked the CIMO vice-president for his involvement in the ISO working group towards developing a consensus. The meeting recommended that this standard be developed as a common WMO-ISO standard. The first draft should be available in May 2018. The Vice-president will discuss the matter further with the WMO secretariat and Dr Finsterle (who represents Switzerland on SC5) to come up with a solution (Action 37).

3.4.7 The session was informed of some problems that have been experienced in developing the first few common standards between WMO and ISO due to different document approval timelines in each of the organizations. The session requested the WMO secretariat to draft a document on process and liaise further with ISO, if needed, to arrive at an arrangement that clarifies the WMO-internal approval process, suits both parties, and to submit the refined document to CIMO MG for review prior to its submission to CIMO-17 (Action 38).

3.4.8 The meeting recognized that it was important for WMO to be involved in the development of standards relevant to its work to ensure that they meet WMO’s expectations. Being part of the relevant working group and contributing to these developments is positive as it enables WMO to influence the content of the standards, ensuring that it only standardizes areas that promote quality and that do not prevent future technological developments. Appropriate experts need to be identified to contribute to the development of individual common WMO-ISO standards.

International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) and the metrology community3.4.9 The session agreed that the collaboration between CIMO and BIPM has been particularly fruitful during the intersessional period. The CIMO president is a member of the Euramet Research Council and of its Task Group Environment. BIPM experts have contributed significantly to the work and outcomes of CIMO’s expert teams and task teams, and the last two CIMO TECOs have been held together with Meteomet conferences. Many NMHSs, particularly in RA VI, now have much closer ties to their respective NMIs.

3.4.10 The session agreed with a suggestion for CIMO to provide a list of priority topics to the metrology community, for metrologists to refer to when developing research project proposals, such as in the context of EMPIR (the next call for EMPIR project proposals is due later in 2018) and propose to develop it as input for a potential CIMO TECO-2018 discussion session. (Action 39).

3.4.11 The session agreed that further close collaboration with Euramet should be encouraged via EMPIR. Liaison with Euramet may be worthwhile to ensure the CIMO-BIPM connections do not weaken. The president noted that an opportunity for this would be the upcoming Euramet Research Council meeting in Bucharest in May, but that he would be unable to attend. He called for expressions of interest from Management Group members to attend on his behalf (Action 16).

Association for Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI)3.4.12 The session was informed that recently there have been frequent changes and additions to HMEI representatives on CIMO expert teams and that this was not optimal to ensure continuity and fluidity in the work of the expert teams. While it would be better not to prevent mid-term changes from being made, the session agreed that HMEI representatives should endeavor to remain committed to membership of an ET for the whole inter-sessional


period, as it is the case for other members of the teams. Concern was also expressed on the large number of HMEI representatives on some teams.

3.4.13 The session recommended that the WMO Secretariat liaise on this matter with HMEI when inviting for nominations for representatives in the teams that will be established by CIMO-17. In this process, HMEI should be asked to make clear to those selected that they are expected to remain active on the team for the length of the intersessional period, and that they would be representing HMEI rather than their own company. (Action 40).

3.4.14 The session agreed that international organizations should be requested to provide nominations for each team at the start of the intersessional period, and from all those nominations for each team, CIMO MG would usually choose up to three representatives from each other international organizations, but no more, to serve on the team.

4. THE FUTURE CIMO WORKING STRUCTURE4.1 Identification and prioritization of key future activities after CIMO-174.1.1 Prior to the commencement of the session, the OPAG Chairs had been requested to list the most important considerations and activities recommended by each of the CIMO teams (ETs, TTs) and TLs, to be taken into consideration for the coming intersessional period. The session considered each of these one by one, and prioritized each in terms of its importance in view of the expected focus on restructuring and in view of the proposed new structure of the commission. After due consideration, CIMO Management Group requested the WMO Secretariat to take their prioritized list into account when developing draft terms of reference and draft work plans for the proposed new teams, and to present these to the Management Group for their consideration prior to CIMO-17 (Action 41).

4.2 Ensuring continuation of CIMO’s activities in the new WMO governance structure 4.2.1 The president reminded the session that considerable effort had been made to develop the new Vision for the future of environmental measurements in a structurally agnostic manner and capture only the essence of what CIMO is about: those things that it does and that must be preserved irrespective of the ultimate structure of the organization. Similarly, a good deal of thought had gone into developing the draft new CIMO structure diagram to ensure that it would fit within the overall future structure of the technical commissions that has been indicated by EC-WG-SOP, be more agile, and have clearly focused teams. So the CIMO Management Group has already done a great deal to ensure continuation of CIMO’s activities in the new WMO governance structure.

4.2.2 The session was informed that there was still more to do, in terms of liaising with the other technical commissions to ensure that each dovetails with the others, that nothing of importance falls through the gaps as a result of the reorganization and that the core business of the commissions continues to be done during the transition period. The vice-president advised that he had tried to connect with peers in GAW and WCRP but with only limited success. He suggested he would endeavor to contact the PTCs, with copies to their vice-presidents, to identify appropriate people to work with to discuss smooth integration for all into the proposed new governance structure. The President offered to write to the PTCs first, informing them to expect an approach from the vice-president. (Actions 42, 43)

4.3 Update of the CIMO Working Structure and Mechanisms 4.3.1 The session discussed the proposed draft new structure of CIMO that was developed at the CIMO Strategic Management meeting from 27 to 29 June 2017. There was general agreement with the overall proposal, though some amendments to the finer details were suggested:

It was agreed to reduce the overall size of the Management Group.


It was agreed to divide technologies into surface and upper air, rather than in-situ and remote sensing as has been the practice for the last two intersessional periods, which would lead to a more natural assignment of experts in ETs. The two proposed expert teams were renamed accordingly.

It was agreed that the terms of reference of the editorial board should include responsibility for monitoring the ICA to ensure no unauthorized changes are made to it and to ensure proposals for updates are being collected appropriately (§2.4.16, Action 22).

It was agreed that the Task Team on Table 1E should interface closely with those developing OSCAR to eliminate any ambiguity or conflicting guidance and to clarify the relationship between the requireemnts expressed in OSCAR and the capabilities expressed in Table 1E.

Invite WCRP/BSRN to be represented on TT-RadRef. It was agreed that a formal Task Team on Measurements in the Structural Transition

is not formally part of the CIMO structure, and that this task would be assigned to the new Management Group. When it appears in structure diagram, it is to draw attention to the resources needed to support it in the overall context of the CIMO activities.

In view of the early success of the newly formed IPET-OWR, and to some degree to preempt and enable smoother transition to the new technical commission structure when it comes, the Management Committee agreed that, subject to the agreement of the other technical commissions concerned, and the agreement of EC, the formation of two new IPETS might be warranted. The first of these was an IPET on Aircraft-Based Measurements (IPET-ABM), which would also gain efficiencies by merging CIMO ET-AO with CBS ET-ABO. The second was an IPET with CBS on Transitioning to Automation by the replacement of manual observations by AWS, a topic which spans both CIMO and CBS and for which additional guidance has been strongly sought by Members in recent times, particularly the developing countries, so is seen as a priority task for both commissions (see further discussion of this at §4.3.2 below).

Concern had been expressed at the limited success achieved by some of the Theme Leaders (e.g., TL-RFP). The WMO secretariat was requested to propose a new, more appropriate coordination mechanism to address this issue.

4.3.2 At a lunchtime meeting of the CIMO Management Group on Thursday 29 April with the President and key office bearers of CBS, Prof Calpini sought CBS agreement to form the two proposed new CBS-related IPETs (§see 4.3.1 above), on Aircraft-Based Measurements, and Transition to Automation (AWSs). CBS agreed with the formation of the former IPET, but after some discussion retained some reservations about the need for the latter. It was agreed that for the timely formation of IPET-ABM, a similar path should be taken as was the case for the formation of IPET-OWR. That is, EC approval should be sought for the formation of IPET-ABM under CIMO management but with joint oversight by CIMO and CBS (Action 44). It was agreed that the Secretariat would develop draft terms of reference for IPET-ABM and seek the concurrence of the CIMO and CBS president prior to including them in the draft EC document.

4.3.3 Following the lunch-time discussion, the session recognized the need to establish a Task Team on Transition to Automation in place of the proposed IPET and to invite other TCs to collaborate. That team would have the mandate to document the strategic concepts to consider in order to address the impact that automation has on the whole data value chain.. Dr van der Meulen informed the meeting that the Netherlands had developed a document addressing such strategic issues and that it was available in English.

4.3.4 Small changes were made to the precise names of some of the teams, though these were not intended to impact on the terms of reference of each team. The resulting proposed draft structure is shown schematically in Annex V and the Secretariat was requested to further fine-tune it in collaboration with the president, if needed.


5. ISSUES RELATED TO THE PLANNING, COORDINATION AND MANAGEMENT OF COMMISSION ACTIVITIES

5.1 Arrangements for CIMO-175.1.1 CIMO-17 will be held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, from 12 to 16 October 2018. It will be two days shorter than the CIMO-16 session. CIMO-17 will be preceded by CIMO TECO-2018, which will be held from 8 to 11 October 2018 in conjunction with Meteorological Technology World Expo (MTWE) that will last from 9 to 11 October 2018. CIMO-17 and TECO-2018 will be held at the RAI premises, but in different buildings. MTWE will not be overlapping with CIMO-17. Satcom-2 will be held in parallel with TECO-2018. However, it is envisaged that another WMO event might be organized on 11 and 12 October, in parallel to the last day of TECO-2018 and to the first day of CIMO-17.

5.1.2 The session agreed in principle with the proposed draft agenda for CIMO-17, noting that it would be further iterated with the president. It was agreed that there would not be individual presentations on new proposed Testbeds as had been previously discussed (Action 45).

5.1.3 All Management Group members were requested to advise the WMO secretariat promptly of their availability to assist with the preparations for TECO-2018 and CIMO-17, to advise of their interest and willingness to serve on the CIMO MG in the coming inter-sessional period, and to provide an indication of which teams they would like to be involved in (Action 46).

5.2 Arrangements for TECO-20185.2.1 The meeting was informed that the organization of TECO-2018 is well underway within the WMO secretariat. It will be held immediately before CIMO-17, from 8 to 11 October 2018 at the RAI, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. It will take approximately the same form as TECO-2016, but efforts are being made to make it even more successful. More emphasis will be placed on poster presentations (in response to feedback received after TECO-2016) by providing the opportunity for 1 minute/1 slide presentations for all poster presenters. Presentations will be gathered prior to TECO rather than during the sessions. A coffee outlet will be arranged near the poster area and more space will be provided around the posters if this can be negotiated with UKi. The vice-president suggested inviting all chairs of ETs to provide a poster on the key achievements of their respective ETs (Action 47). It was agreed that the timing and topics of the discussion sessions would be decided closer to the event, but that this year efforts should be made to decrease the time taken by the panel members to talk to allow more time for plenary discussion, similar to what happened during the AWS conference. It was agreed that the programme would be structured to ensure there would be no poster presentations on the last day (Action 48).

5.2.2 The Management Group members were requested to ensure that they would be available during May 2018 to assess the abstracts for the conference, to enable timely notification of authors.

5.2.3 The Management Group members were requested to provide proposals for TECO-2018 discussion session topics and for keynote addresses to the WMO secretariat for consideration by the Conference Director (Action 49). It was agreed that Dr Michelson should be invited to provide a keynote address on the activities of IPET-OWR (Action 50).

5.3 Certificates and other pertinent issues5.3.1 The meeting briefly considered which of the existing CIMO experts should be awarded CIMO Certificates at CIMO-17. The WMO secretariat was requested to draft a list of proposed recipients for the Management Group’s consideration and to organize a follow-up teleconference to decide who should receive certificates and awards (Action 51).


6. OTHER BUSINESS6.1.1 Concern was expressed on some conflicts between OSCAR and the CIMO Guide. It was noted that CIMO had played only a relatively minor role in the development of the OSCAR requirement database and it was apparently planned that the database would provide indication on what is possible to achieve in terms of technologies. Some effort had been made to have an influence in the development of OSCAR, but with little impact. The meeting agreed that the Task Team dealing with Table 1E of the CIMO Guide should be charged with working with the OSCAR team to eliminate ambiguities and conflicting advice between OSCAR and the CIMO Guide Table 1E (Action 52).

6.1.2 Concern was also expressed that there has been no CIMO representation on CBS IPET-OSDE, as other technical commission representatives are considered as point of contacts only, and not anymore able to be formally part of the IPET. The President was requested to communicate with the CBS President to resolve this issue (Action 53).

6.1.3 Mr Buyukbas has acted as CIMO representative on the Task Team on the WIGOS Metadata Standard. He noted that the CIMO Guide contained only some of the definitions that had been needed for the development of the standard.

6.1.4 The meeting discussed the requirements for ET reports to OPAG Chairs and for the future format of Management Group reports. There was some concern that the reports have been too long and that, in view of the volume of reports to be read, some abbreviation in future would be desirable. For the OPAG Chairs’ report on the ET, it was agreed that all that is required is an executive summary of the work of the ET highlighting the main points, and a list of recommendations for the Management Group to consider/decide on. The ET report to the OPAG Co-Chairs are not limited in length. They should be made available to the CIMO Management Group, but would not be reviewed and discussed in details.

6.1.5 The President and Vice-president agreed to assess, once the EC-WG-SOP report is available, whether a teleconference is warranted to modify any of the major decisions made during the session. The WMO secretariat was also requested to abbreviate the draft Management Group reports to highlight decisions made and actions agreed to, keeping in mind that the wording of a decision or action in some cases requires contextual background to be comprehensible after the fact.

7. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION7.1 The session was closed on Thursday 29 March 2018 at 15:00 hours.

_____________________

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX I

ANNEX ILIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Prof. Bertrand CALPINIPresident of CIMO

MeteoSwissAerological Station Payerne P.O. Box 316CH-1530 PAYERNESwitzerlandTel.: +(41 26) 662 62 28Fax +(41 26) 662 62 [email protected]

Dr Bruce FORGANVice-President of CIMO

Bureau of MeteorologyPO Box 1289MELBOURNE 3001Victoria AustraliaTel.: +(61 3) 9669 4111Fax: +(61 3) 9669 [email protected]

Dr Jitze VAN DER MEULENCo-chair, OPAG In Situ Technologies and Intercomparisons

Royal Netherlands Meteorological InstituteUtrechtseweg 297P.O. Box 201NL-3730 AE DE BILTNetherlandsTel.: +(31 30) 220 6432Fax: +(31 30) 221 [email protected]

Mr Bruce HARTLEYCo-chair, OPAG In Situ Technologies and Intercomparisons

Meteorological Service of New Zealand LimitedP.O. Box 7226012 WELLINGTON New ZealandTel.: +64 4 472 9379Fax: +64 4 470 [email protected]

Dr LI BaiCo-chair OPAG-Remote-Sensing Technologies

China Meteorological AdministrationMeteorological Observation CenterNo. 46 Zhongguacun, NandajieBEIJING 100081ChinaTel.: +86 10 5899 5366Fax:+86 10 6840 [email protected]

Mr Ercan BUYUKBASCo-chair OPAG-Remote-Sensing Technologies

Turkish State Meteorological ServiceObserving Systems Department06120 Kalaba ANKARATurkeyTel.: +90 312 302 2121Fax: +90 312 361 [email protected]

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX I, p. 2

Dr Mario Jorge GARCIACo-chair, OPAG-Capacity Development and Operational Metrology

Servicio Meteorologico NacionalDorrego 4019 C11425 GBE BUENOS AIRESArgentinaTel.: +(54 11) 5167 6767 ext. 18855 and +54 1 1556267541 (mobile)Fax: +(54 11) 5167 [email protected]

Dr Rabia MERROUCHICo-chair, OPAG-Capacity Development and Operational Metrology

Direction de la Météorologie Nationale (DMN/CNRMSI)B.P. 8106, Boulevard Mohamed Taieb NaciriCASA-OASISCASABLANCAMoroccoTel.: +212 522 65 48 32 and +212 661 47 31 72Fax: +212 522 91 34 [email protected]

Dr Volker KURZChair CIMO Editorial Board

Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD)Frankfurter Strasse 135D-63067 OFFENBACHGermanyTel.: +(49 69) 8062 2828Fax: +(49 69) 8062 [email protected]

Mr Arkady KOLDAEVFocal Point for EC-PHORS

Central Aerological Observatory3, Pervomayskaya Street141700 DOLGOPRUDNYMoscow RegionRussian FederationTel.: +7 915 356 7252Fax: +7 495 408 [email protected]

WMO SECRETARIAT 7 bis, avenue de la Paix

Case postale 2300 CH 1211 Geneva 2

Switzerland

IMOP website

http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/IMOP/IMOP-home.html

Dr Fernando BELDADirector, Observing and Information Systems Department

Tel.: +41 22 730 8035Fax: +41 22 730 8080E-mail: [email protected]

Dr Isabelle RÜEDIHead, Instruments and Methods of Observation UnitWMO Observing Systems Division


Mr Krunoslav PREMECScientific Officer, Instruments and Methods of Observation UnitWMO Observing Systems Division


http://www.wmo.int/web/www/www.html

http://www.wmo.int/web/www/www.html

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX I, p. 3

Dr Roger ATKINSONScientific Officer, Instruments and Methods of Observation UnitWMO Observing Systems Division


Mr Dean LOCKETTScientific OfficerWMO Observing Systems Division


CIMO MG-15, ANNEX II, p. 1

ANNEX IIINTERNATIONAL CLOUD ATLAS: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE WORK AND

IMPROVEMENTSTT_ICA-1 (2013) and subsequent meetings identified a great many essential or desired characteristics of a web-based WMO International Cloud Atlas. The 2017 Edition addresses most of these. However, TT-ICA recognized that some gaps would remain and there is an imperative for continued future improvement. Prioritized Recommendations for Enhancements and Additions

1. Education tools: From the outset, it was recognised that the new web-based edition of the ICA should be suitably designed to make it ideal for using in the development of e-based learning and training tools. TT-ICA strongly recommends that WMO undertake the creation of tools and platforms leveraging the ICA web format and its content. The TT considers that this should be tackled by RTCs in collaboration with the WMO Education and Training Department. Several TT members have expressed interest to remain engaged and pursue such activities.

2. Graphics: TT-ICA recommends inclusion of additional explanatory or illustrative graphics to clearly and concisely convey information. The Task Team recognized the value of info-graphics such as the one of the polar, temperate and tropical tropopause showing the height ranges of levels within these regions (as on p. 35 of (1975) Volume I)]. Graphics may be of particular value to explain terms in the glossary that are not readily photographed, for example “cold pool”.

3. Images: The 2017 edition has many more images to illustrate clouds and other meteors that were available in the prior edition. There is, however, a remaining need to fill targeted gaps. TT-ICA recommends that future experts engaged in improving the ICA consider that:

a. Certain descriptions are best illustrated using time-lapse imagery, and not all were available for this edition. A draft list of cloud types that would most benefit is included here as an Appendix. Video clips and time lapse imagery can pick up detail that is not apparent with a casual 1-minute glance at the sky let alone a still image, and can show, for example, the transition of CL2 to CL3 to CL9, or it can show the constantly changing appearance of CM4, which is rarely evident to the naked eye.

b. There remain features associated with severe convective storms that are not present in the current image set. This should be remedied. Especially, some Glossary definitions related to severe storms and dangerous weather could be improved with an explanatory photograph. The TT had limited success gaining usable submissions for these. Because of the impact of dangerous weather, this should be given a high priority for future work. Also, as noted below, future enhancement to the text and graphics could better indicate connections between dangerous weather and certain cloud and meteor phenomena.

c. In some cases, enhanced metadata for a cloud image would be helpful to better describe the environment in which the cloud forms or exists. This may consist of radar or satellite or synoptic maps that were not sourced for the current edition. It is important to emphasize that context should be added only where it clarifies or helps illustrate a point made in the ICA.

d. The ICA show how some clouds vary in appearance in different climate zone, but future work could expand this for rarely photographed cases (for example some clouds at extremely high latitude) and seek better ways to present this information to ICA users.

4. In some areas there is room for further enhancement of information in the text.a. As noted above, in a future edition, text and graphics could be enhanced to

better indicate connections between dangerous weather and certain cloud and meteor phenomena.


b. Much information relevant to clouds as seen from aircraft was retained from the 1975 Edition ICA, and updated photographs were sourced. TT-ICA’s Terms-of-Reference steered the task team away from work on clouds as seen from aircraft but the TT suggests it may be valuable to enhance this material in the future.

c. The TT recognized that satellite images are used by many cloud observers as additional information and context when classifying clouds. Some satellite images were included in the new edition as metadata. Satellite remote sensing techniques and products are rapidly changing and creating a comprehensive guide for observers was outside the scope of TT-ICA’s work. However, it is suggested that in future this area be monitored and further consideration given to whether such information should be compiled.

5. The ICA includes a mechanism for public feedback through the website. Feedback emails are forwarded to an expert from TT-ICA, to the HKO web experts, and to the WMO secretariat, depending on the topic. TT-ICA has noted that it will be important to maintain communication between ICA users and WMO Experts so recommends that CIMO-MG develops a formal long-term procedure to ensure the feedback loop is maintained.

______________


APPENDIX TO ANNEX IIDraft List of Cloud Types Requiring Time Lapse Imagery

(Reproduced from TT_ICA-2 Meeting Report, Annex VI:https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/IMOP/reports/2014/CIMO-TT-ICA-

2_FinalRep_fin.pdf)1. Mutatus

a. Cu - Sc4 b. Cu - Ac6c. Cu - Cb3 - Cb9d. Cu - Ac6e. Cb - As - even Nsf. Cb - Ci – Csg. Ci - Cs - As - Ns

2. Ci and/or Cs formed by contrail (longevity and/or spreading)3. Lenticular and standing waves4. Cirrocumulus/cirrostratus?5. Classic mid latitude frontal approach (warm and cold frontal - cold frontal covered in 1g.)6. Asperitas7. Fallstreak holes8. Stratospheric/mesospheric clouds9. Severe convective clouds (wall, shelf, funnel, arcus ....)10. Roll clouds

______________

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX III

ANNEX IIICOMPETENCY FRAMEWORKS

The provision of the Meteorological Observations function within a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) or related agency may be accomplished by a variety of skilled personnel, including meteorologists, climatologists, geographers, meteorological instrument technicians and meteorological technicians. It can also be accomplished by a range of other more amateur people, such as farmers, police, clerical workers, or private citizens. Third party organizations (e.g., universities, international and regional institutions and research centres) and private-sector organizations might also contribute to this function.

This document sets out a competency framework for personnel (primarily professional meteorological observers) involved in the provision of meteorological observations function, but it is not necessary that each person has the full set of competencies as set out in the framework. However, within specific application conditions (as set out below), which might be different for each organization or region, it is expected that any institution providing meteorological observations services will have staff members somewhere within the organization who together demonstrate all the competencies. The Performance Components as well as the Knowledge and Skill Requirements that support the competencies should be customized based on the particular context of an organization. However, the general criteria and requirements provided here will apply in most circumstances.

It is recommended that professional meteorological observers performing meteorological observations should have successfully completed the Basic Instruction Package for Meteorological Technician (BIP-MT). (Detailed information on BIP-MT is shown in the Manual on the Implementation of Education and Training Standards in Meteorology and Hydrology which is available at: http://library.wmo.int/pmb_ged/wmo_1083_en.pdf).

APPLICATION CONDITIONS

The application of the competency framework will depend on the following circumstances, which will be different for each organization.

A. The organizational context, priorities and stakeholder requirements;

B. The way in which internal and external personnel are used to provide meteorological observations services;

C. The available resources and capabilities (financial, human, technological, and facilities), and organizational structures, policies and procedures;

D. National and institutional legislation, rules and procedures;

E. WMO guidelines, Meteorological observation procedures and ISO requirements;

F. Regional variations, i.e.:

(i) The range of weather phenomena experienced in the region,

(ii) Local climatology,

(iii) Extent of automation of observing and sensing systems,

(iv) Available communication technologies.

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX III, p. 2

Meteorological Observations: High Level Competencies

1. Monitor the meteorological situation.

2. Perform a surface observation.

3. Perform a balloon-borne upper air observation.

4. Utilize remote sensing technology in making observations.

5. Monitor the performance of instruments and systems.

6. Maintain the quality of observational information.

7. Maintain a safe work environment.

Competency 1: Monitor the meteorological situation

Competency description

Appraise meteorological conditions to identify the significant and evolving situation that is affecting or will likely affect the area of responsibility throughout the watch period.

Performance components

1. Assess the evolving local meteorological situation.

2. Understand the potential influence of the evolving meteorological situation on subsequent observations.

3. Identify meteorological symptoms that may lead to the onset of significant weather.

Knowledge and skill requirements

1. Understanding of general meteorology as described in the Basic Instruction Package for Meteorological Technician (BIP-MT) including physical meteorology, dynamic meteorology, synoptic and mesoscale meteorology, climatology, meteorological instruments and methods of observations.

2. Identification of clouds and other meteors using the WMO International Cloud Atlas (WMO – No. 407) as guidance.

3. Meteorological factors leading to the evolution of significant weather.

4. Standard Operating Procedures and prescribed practices for monitoring weather conditions.


Competency 2: Perform a surface observation


Perform surface observations of meteorological variables and phenomena, and their significant changes, according to prescribed practices.


1. Observe and accurately record:

Precipitation,

atmospheric pressure,

temperature,

humidity,

wind,

cloud,

present and past weather,

visibility,

solar radiation,

sunshine duration,

evaporation,

soil temperature,

state of the ground,

other specialised observations as required (e.g. soil moisture, sea state, atmospheric composition, wind shear, leaf wetness, phenology).

2. Encode and transmit surface observations using prescribed codes and methods.



2. Cloud classification as defined in the WMO International Cloud Atlas (WMO – No. 407).

3. Past and present weather identification.

4. Standard Operating Procedures and prescribed practices for performing surface observations,.

5. Onsite instrumentation and systems (including software).


6. Care in handling instruments.

7. Accuracy in reading instruments and recording observations.

8. Use of meteorological codes to record observations [e.g., according to the Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System (WMO - No. 485) and Manual on Codes (WMO - No. 306)].

Competency 3: Perform a balloon-borne upper air observation


Perform a balloon-borne upper air observation, according to prescribed practices and procedures.


1. Prepare and deploy balloons and their payloads:

Balloon shed safety check,

Balloon preparation and filling,

Instrument ground check,

Balloon release.

2. Track balloon flight.

3. Compute and record:

Upper air pressure, temperature and humidity,

Upper air wind speed and direction,

Other specialised upper air observations as required (e.g. ozone).

4. Encode and transmit upper air observations using prescribed codes and methods.


1. Hydrogen safety and generation.


3. Standard Operating Procedures and prescribed practices for performing upper-air observations.




7. Use of meteorological codes to record observations.


Competency 4: Utilize remote sensing technology in making observations


Make observations utilizing remote sensing technology e.g., satellite, weather radar, radar wind profiler, wind lidar, ceilometer, microwave radiometer, lightning detection system, etc.


1. Interpret information derived from remote sensing technology in making observations (e.g., ceilometer for cloud base height in SYNOP/METAR).

2. Cross-check observations obtained from alternative observing techniques (e.g. remote sensing versus in-situ measurements) to ensure consistency [e.g., compare visibility information recorded by visibility meters with satellite imagery (fog, sandstorms) and manual observations].


1. Understanding of the physical principles of operation, the particular technical configuration and the limitations of surface-based and space-based remote sensing technology being utilized (e.g., weather radar, wind lidar, ceilometer, lightning detection system, radar wind profiler, microwave radiometer).

2. Knowledge of the use of different meteorological and oceanographic information derived from remote sensing technology (e.g., Imagery from different channels of satellites, Doppler wind field from weather radars).

Competency 5: Monitor the performance of instruments and systems


Monitor the status and performance of observational instrumentation and communications systems1.


1. Regularly inspect meteorological instruments (e.g., raingauge, wet bulb thermometer), automated observing systems (e.g., AWS, weather radar fault status), communications systems and backup systems (e.g., power).

2. Conduct routine maintenance tasks as prescribed (e.g., change wet bulb wick or recorder charts, clean pyranometer dome or ceilometer window).

3. Conduct first-in fault diagnosis and alert technical staff.

4. Undertake action under guidance from remote technical staff.

5. Record interventions and irregularities in a maintenance log / metadata repository.

1 See also Competency 2 in Instrumentation Competencies



1. Standard Operating Procedures and prescribed practices for carrying out inspection of instruments and communications systems, etc.

2. Accuracy requirements for instrumentation and measurements (e.g., as specified in the Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation – WMO - No. 8 and other WMO or ICAO regulatory and guidance materials).





7. Hazard awareness in the vicinity of instruments and communications systems (e.g., near electrical cables, working at heights, electromagnetic radiation).

8. Prescribed contingency plans (e.g., failure of power and communications systems, damage to infrastructure during severe weather events).

Competency 6: Maintain the quality of observational information


Maintain the quality of meteorological observations at the required level by applying documented quality management processes.


1. Monitor all observations to check for errors and inconsistencies, correct errors or flag data in accordance with prescribed procedures and take follow-up action.

2. Record corrections, flags and follow-up actions in metadata repository.

3. Check observational messages for format and content before issuance and make corrections if required.

4. Ensure all observations are successfully sent and received.



2. Standard Operating Procedures and prescribed practices for treating suspect observations.

3. Accuracy requirements for measurements (e.g., as specified in the Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8) and other WMO or ICAO regulatory and guidance materials).




6. Prescribed contingency plans. (e.g., data transmission failure, power failure).

Competency 7: Maintain a safe work environment


Perform all observing tasks in a safe and healthy working environment, at all times complying with occupational safety and health regulations and procedures.


1. Safely handle, store and dispose of hydrogen and the chemicals used for generating hydrogen.

2. Safely handle, store and dispose of mercury, and equipment containing mercury.

3. Safely handle, store and dispose of other toxic or dangerous substances, and equipment containing these substances (such as wet cell batteries).

4. Perform safely in the proximity of electrical hazards.

5. Safely perform all observing tasks while minimizing exposure to hazardous environmental conditions (severe weather, lightning, flood, hurricane, fires, etc.).

6. Safely perform all observing tasks in the presence of safety hazards (working at heights, in the proximity of microwave radiation, compressed gases, etc.).

7. Maintain a register of hazards and hazard management.


1. Occupational safety and health requirements and procedures (e.g., hydrogen, mercury, chemical, electrical safety and working at height).

2. Hazard identification and mitigation.

3. Hazard register summarizing all potential hazards and control measures in the workplace to enhance occupational safety.


COMPETENCY FRAMEWORK FOR INSTRUMENTATION

The provision of instrument installation and maintenance services within a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) or related services might be accomplished by a variety of skilled personnel, including meteorologists, instrument specialists and technicians, engineers and IT personnel. Personnel in third party organizations (e.g., private contractors, communication services providers and instruments maintenance agents) and other providers might also supply installation and maintenance services for various meteorological observing instruments.

This document sets out a competency framework for personnel involved in the installation and maintenance of meteorological observing instruments2, but it is not necessary that each person has the full set of competencies. However, within specific application conditions (see below), which will be different for each organization, it is expected that any institution providing the instrument installation and maintenance services will have staff members somewhere within the organization who together demonstrate all the competencies. The Performance Components as well as the Knowledge and Skill Requirements that support the competencies should be customized based on the particular context of an organization. However, the general criteria and requirements provided here will apply in most circumstances.

It is recommended that personnel involved in the installation and maintenance of meteorological observing instruments should have successfully completed the Basic Instruction Package for Meteorological Technician (BIP-MT) (Detailed information on BIP-MT is shown in the Manual on the Implementation of Education and Training Standards in Meteorology and Hydrology which is available at: http://library.wmo.int/pmb_ged/wmo_1083_en.pdf).




B. The way in which internal and external personnel are used to provide the instrument installation and maintenance services;



E. WMO guidelines, recommendations and procedures for instrument installation and maintenance services.

Instrumentation: High Level Competencies

1. Install instruments and communications systems.

2. Maintain instrument and system performance.

3. Diagnose faults.

4. Repair faulty instruments and systems.

2 In this document, the competency refers to the performance required for effective installation and maintenance of minor pieces of observing instruments. The competencies for large meteorological observing infrastructure such as those including radars and wind profilers are covered under Observing Programme and Network Management competencies.


5. Maintain a safe work environment.

Competency 1: Install instruments and communications systems


Install, test and commission meteorological observing instruments and communications systems.


1. Assemble and test instruments before transport to site.

2. Transport instruments to site.

3. Install instruments and communication systems (including simple site preparation).

4. Coach observing/technical staff in operation and maintenance of the instruments (including provision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Standard Operating Instructions (SOI), systems manuals, wiring diagrams, etc.).

5. Thoroughly test on-site instrument and communications performance, prior to operational cut-over.

6. Complete site classification for variable(s) concerned, prepare and submit instrument and variable metadata to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) via the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review (OSCAR) Tool.

7. Switch instrument(s) to operational mode.


1. Understanding of general meteorology as described in the Basic Instruction Package for Meteorological Technician (BIP-MT).

2. Detailed understanding of meteorological instruments and methods of observation.


4. World Meteorological Organization Information System (WIS) set–up.

5. Careful handling of instruments, including during transportation.

6. Electronics and Information Communications Technology (ICT).

7. Correct and safe use of mechanical and electrical tools.

8. Standard Operating Procedures, practices and quality management systems.

9. Occupation safety and health requirements for instruments and systems.

Competency 2: Maintain instrument and system performance



Perform preventive maintenance on instruments and communications systems in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures to ensure quality and availability of observational information3.

Performance Components

1. Schedule and carry out preventive maintenance and site inspection following prescribed procedures (e.g., change wet bulb wick or recorder charts, clean pyranometer dome or ceilometer window, change anemometer bearings, and carry out preventive maintenance on more sophisticated pieces of equipment like radars and automatic weather stations as specified in the Standard Operating Procedures).

2. Ensure availability of prescribed spare parts inventories.

3. Monitor data availability and the performances of instruments and communications systems4.

4. Routinely verify correct functioning of instruments, following prescribed procedures.

5. Perform on-site calibration checks to ensure that instrument performance is within tolerance, following prescribed procedures.

6. Provide guidance and refresher training, remotely if necessary, to on-site staff, to maintain compliance with prescribed methods of operating the instruments, for making observations and with procedures for the reduction of observations.

7. Inspect the exposure of instruments and remove any obstacles nearby if necessary.

8. Record maintenance and site inspection5 events, calibrations, sensor/instrument replacements in maintenance log / metadata repository.



2. Detailed understanding of meteorological instruments and methods of observation and particular familiarity with those employed at the site.


4. Accuracy in reading instruments.

5. Maintenance and site inspection manuals, Standard Operating Procedures, practices and quality management systems.


7. Measurement uncertainty of instruments and calibration traceability.

3 See also Competency 5 in Observing Programme and Network Management Competencies.4 See also Competency 5 in Meteorological Observations Competencies.5 For site inspection tasks, refer to Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8), particularly Part I Chapter 1 Section 1.3.5.1, Part IV Chapter 1 Section 1.10.1, Guide to the Global Observing System (WMO - No. 488), particularly Sections 3.1.3.8 and 3.1.3.11, Manual on the Global Observing System – Volume I – Global Aspects (WMO - No. 544), particularly Sections 3.1.5 and 3.1.6., Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO - No. 1160), particularly Section 3.4.8.



Competency 3: Diagnose faults


Diagnose faults in the performance of the observation system (instruments, communications, power supply and auxiliary infrastructure).


1. Detect abnormality in data acquisition and system operation.

2. Inspect observational instruments, communications systems, power supply facilities and auxiliary infrastructure for faults.

3. Provide guidance, remotely if necessary, to on-site staff to identify and diagnose minor faults.

4. Record all faults and their occurrence time in a maintenance log / metadata repository.

5. If repair is required, order delivery of requisite spare parts.



2. Detailed understanding of meteorological instruments and methods of observation and particular familiarity with those employed at the site.




6. Ability to interrogate the system both on-site and remotely.



9. Contingency plans to ensure continuity of observations (e.g., in event of power failure, sensor failure, system failure, backup sensors and communications systems).

Competency 4: Repair faulty instruments and systems


Repair faulty instruments and systems in the observing network.



1. Provide guidance, remotely if necessary, to on-site staff to repair minor faults.

2. Assess spare parts requirements and ensure availability.

3. Repair faulty components following prescribed procedures and processes.

4. Perform tests after repair to ensure compliance with performance requirements.

5. Record repair actions taken and time of resuming data acquisition in a maintenance log / metadata repository.



2. Detailed understanding of meteorological instruments and methods of observation.



5. Care in handling instruments including during transportation.

6. Instrument/system design and operation.

7. Repair manuals, Standard Operating Procedures, practices and quality management systems.

8. Ability to interrogate the system both on-site and remotely.




Competency 5: Maintain a safe work environment


Perform all tasks in a safe and healthy working environment, at all times complying with occupational safety and health regulations and procedures.


1. Conduct hazard identification and risk assessment.

2. Raise safety awareness among other employees and visitors to site.

3. Continuously monitor the workplace for occupational safety and health hazards and correct or mitigate non-conformances.

4. Secure remote site to ensure public safety.

5. Make use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

6. Safely handle, store and dispose of all hazardous chemicals (e.g., mercury, hydrogen and the chemicals used for generating hydrogen, batteries).

7. Perform safely in the proximity of electrical hazards, microwave radiation, weather related hazards and when working at heights or in confined spaces.

8. Maintain a register of hazards and hazard management.

Knowledge and Skills Requirements

1. ISO 31000 (Risk management: principles and guidelines on implementation).

2. Safety procedures in handling hazardous materials (e.g., mercury, hydrogen and the chemicals used for generating hydrogen, batteries).

3. Safety procedures for electrical hazards, microwave radiation, weather related hazards and when working at heights or in confined spaces.

4. General occupational safety and health requirements.

5. Hazard identification, mitigation and registration.


COMPETENCY FRAMEWORK FOR CALIBRATION

The provision of instrument calibration services within a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) or related services might be accomplished by a variety of skilled personnel, including meteorologists, instrument specialists, technicians and engineers. Third party organizations (e.g., private contractors, calibration service providers and laboratories) might also provide calibration services for various meteorological observing instruments.

This document sets out a competency framework for personnel working in calibration laboratories and/or providing centralized calibration services for meteorological observing instruments, but it is not necessary that each person has the full set of competencies. However, within specific application conditions (see below), which will be different for each organization, it is expected that any institution providing the instrument calibration services will have staff members somewhere within the organization who together demonstrate all the competencies. The Performance Components as well as the Knowledge and Skill Requirements that support the competencies should be customized based on the particular context of an organization. However, the general criteria and requirements provided here will apply in most circumstances.




B. The way in which internal and external personnel are used to provide the instrument calibration services;



E. WMO guidelines, recommendations and procedures for instrument calibration services.

Calibration: High Level Competencies

1. Calibrate instruments.

2. Check instrument performance.

3. Manage the laboratory work programme.

4. Manage the laboratory infrastructure.

5. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures.

6. Manage the data and record archival6.

7. Maintain a safe work environment and laboratory security

Competency 1: Calibrate instruments

6 The meaning of the term “archival” in this context is the function of storing, keeping secure, and ensuring discoverability, accessibility and retrievability of data and information.



Execute calibrations in accordance with standard calibration procedures, from item handling to editing of calibration certificates.


1. Execute routine calibrations on day-to-day basis in accordance with standard calibration procedures.

2. Compute the calibration uncertainty in conformity with the Standard Operating Procedures.

3. Prepare a draft of calibration certificate (not including approval or issuance).

4. Handle calibration items appropriately.

5. Conduct intermediate checks of working standards in calibration laboratory.

6. Participate in internal and external audits.


1. Laboratory facilities and standards (including software).

2. Standard Operating Procedures for performing calibration and computation of calibration uncertainty.


4. The basics of Metrology and uncertainty computation including knowledge of the International Vocabulary of Metrology (VIM), International System of Units (SI), measurement standards and traceability, measurement uncertainty and errors and calculation of uncertainty using prescribed methods.

5. The basics of meteorological instrumentation including understanding of the working principles of common meteorological instruments and their characteristics and accuracy requirements for measurements (e.g., as specified in the Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8) and other WMO or ICAO regulatory and guidance materials).


Competency 2: Check instrument performance


Check instrument performance in the laboratory using measurement standards in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures.


1. Prepare the standards to be used for checking instrument performance.

2. Handle standards and items appropriately.

3. Compare the instrument with standards and evaluate its functionality.

4. Record and analyze the measurement errors.

5. Prepare instrument performance reports as required.


1. Handling and use of measurement standards.

2. Standard Operating Procedures for performing instrument checks.


4. The basics of Metrology and uncertainty computation including knowledge of the International Vocabulary of Metrology (VIM), International System of Units (SI), measurement standards and traceability, measurement uncertainty and errors and calculation of uncertainty using prescribed methods.

5. The basics of meteorological instrumentation including understanding of the working principles of common meteorological instruments and their characteristics and accuracy requirements for measurements (e.g., as specified in the Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8) and other WMO or ICAO regulatory and guidance materials).

Competency 3: Manage the laboratory work programme


Develop, prepare, organize and manage the calibration activities of the calibration laboratory.


1. Manage the work of the calibration laboratory, including quality and technical aspects (covering traceability of standards, uncertainty budget evaluation).

2. Plan and organize the regular calibrations (either internal or external as required) of reference standards following the Standard Operating Procedures and/or the relevant WMO guidance.

3. Prepare, plan, design, procure the physical infrastructure for calibration activities (test chambers, standards, fixed point cells, pressure generators, etc.) and the applications required to conduct calibration activities.


4. Monitor the quality of the laboratory calibration activities and determine the laboratory’s applicable Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC).

5. Provide on-going training to ensure maintenance of competency of the calibration laboratory staff (training, qualification, etc.).

6. Communicate with customers on calibration issues, including explaining the results of calibrations.

7. Conduct internal audits, external audits and where possible inter-laboratory comparisons as recommended by ISO/IEC 17025.



2. Standard Operating Procedures for managing the calibration activities of the laboratory.

3. Advanced metrology and uncertainty computation including, in addition to the basics, detailed knowledge of the “Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement” (GUM) or equivalent, application of the GUM uncertainty framework to measurement uncertainty evaluation.

4. Standard Operating Procedures for inter-laboratory comparison and assessment of Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC).

5. Quality-related requirements [e.g., ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 17025, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)].

6. Meteorological instrumentation covering the knowledge of the performance characteristics of common meteorological instruments.

7. Current technologies and emerging trends of laboratory instruments.

Competency 4: Manage the laboratory infrastructure


Install and maintain the physical infrastructure for calibration activities (test chambers, standards, fixed point cells, pressure generators, etc.) and the applications required to conduct calibration activities.


1. Install and set up the physical infrastructure for calibration activities, including software.

2. Test the equipment to ensure its compliance with the requirements.

3. Maintain the laboratory infrastructure in optimal operational condition.

4. Maintain the quality of the laboratory reference standard instruments.

5. Conduct preventative and corrective maintenance.

6. Manage site environment (air conditioning, secure electric power, etc.).



1. Laboratory facilities and standards (including software), and their maintenance.

2. Asset management.


4. Standard Operating Procedures for managing the laboratory infrastructure.

5. The basics of Metrology including knowledge of the International Vocabulary of Metrology (VIM), International System of Units (SI), measurement standards and traceability.

6. The basics of meteorological instrumentation and its maintenance.

Competency 5: Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures


Develop, assess and maintain Standard Operating Procedures necessary for the achievement of calibrating activities, including computing calibration uncertainties.


1. Develop Standard Operating Procedures taking into account available laboratory facilities and quality management requirements.

2. Establish uncertainty budget for calibration operating procedures.

3. Develop calibration certificate templates.

4. Maintain and upgrade Standard Operating Procedures (including in support of maintenance).


1. Knowledge of best practices relating to Standard Operating Procedures.

2. Advanced metrology and uncertainty computation including, in addition to the basics, detailed knowledge of the “Guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement” (GUM) or equivalent, application of the GUM uncertainty framework to measurement uncertainty evaluation, conducting inter-laboratory comparisons and determination of the Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC) of the laboratory.


4. Quality requirements [e.g., ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 17025, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)].

5. Meteorological instrumentation, in particular, those in the national network.

Competency 6: Manage the data and record archival



Ensure the archival of calibration activity measurements, calibration certificates and records.


1. Archive calibration activity measurement data and metadata and the associated records.

2. Archive calibration certificates of calibrated instruments.

3. Archive calibration certificates of laboratory instruments.


1. Knowledge of prescribed practices for managing the data and record archival.

Competency 7: Maintain a safe work environment and laboratory security


Perform all calibration tasks in a safe and healthy working environment, at all times complying with occupational safety and health regulations and procedures, and security requirements.


1. Safely handle, store and dispose of mercury, and equipment containing mercury.

2. Safely handle, store and dispose of other toxic or dangerous substances, and equipment containing these substances (such as wet cell batteries).

3. Perform safely in the proximity of electrical hazards.

4. Safely perform all calibration tasks in the presence of safety hazards.

5. Ensure the security (access restrictions, etc.) of the calibration laboratory and instruments under test.


1. Mercury safety procedures.

2. Chemical safety procedures.

3. Electrical safety procedures.

4. Occupational safety and health requirements.

5. Standard Operating Procedures for maintaining staff safety and laboratory security.


COMPETENCY FRAMEWORK FOR OBSERVING PROGRAMME AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

The management of observing programme and network operation within a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) or related services might be accomplished by a variety of skilled personnel, including programme planners and managers, meteorologists, instrument specialists and technicians, engineers and IT personnel. Personnel in third party organizations (e.g., private contractors, communication services providers and instrument maintenance agents) and other providers might also supply consultancy and management services for the observing programme and/or equipment maintenance services for the observing network.

This document sets out a competency framework for personnel involved in the management of observing programme and network, but it is not necessary that each person has the full set of competencies7. However, within specific application conditions (see below), which will be different for each organization, it is expected that any institution managing the observing programme and network operation will have staff members somewhere within the organization or external service providers who together demonstrate all the competencies. The Performance Components as well as the Knowledge and Skill Requirements that support the competencies should be customized based on the particular context of an organization. However, the general criteria and requirements provided here will apply in most circumstances.

In planning and managing the observing programme and network operation, the relevant regulatory requirements and guiding principles from the manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO - No. 1160) should be taken into account (e.g., Appendices 2.1 and 2.5). The WMO Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR) process (http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/OSY/GOS-RRR.html) in combination with the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR) (https:/OSCAR.WMO.int) should be used so that the capabilities of the observing programme can be reviewed and improved to meet the relevant data requirements under various WMO Application Areas.




B. The way in which internal and external personnel are used to provide the observing programme and network management services;



E. WMO guidelines, recommendations and procedures for observing programme and network management.

7 In this document, the competency refers to the performance required for effective management of an observing programme involving large meteorological observing networks such as those including radars and wind profilers.


Observing Programme and Network Management: High Level Competencies

1. Plan the observing programme

2. Procure equipment

3. Select and acquire sites

4. Install network components

5. Manage the network operation

6. Manage the observing programme

Competency 1: Plan the observing programme

Competency descriptionAscertain observation requirements and formulate observing programme development plans that satisfy these requirements taking into account the technical, financial and human resources required for implementation, continuous operation and long-term sustainability.Performance components1. Assess user requirements for observations (Rolling Review of Requirements).

2. Perform an observation system gap analysis using Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR).

3. Identify the required observational instrumentation to fill the identified gaps.

4. Design network topology/structure required to fill the identified gaps taking into account the inclusion of external (so-called 3rd party) data sources.

5. Identify the associated human resources required (quantities and competencies) for the sustainable operation of the proposed observing programme.

6. Identify the required supporting infrastructure (e.g., site, buildings, communications).

7. Prepare a fully costed life cycle plan for the sustainable operation of the proposed observing programme.

8. Document in detail the proposed observing programme and develop the implementation plan.

9. Check that the final observing programme satisfies the original specified requirements (review and obtain feedback from users).

10. Develop (or update existing) contingency plan and business continuity plan for the observing programme.


Knowledge and Skill Requirement

1. Users’ requirements for data under various WMO Application Areas.

2. Meteorological instruments and communications systems installed in the observing network, commercially available alternatives and emerging developments.

3. Programme management including knowledge of programme planning, organizational structure, design and scheduling of tasks, liaison with stakeholders, etc.

4. Financial planning and management including knowledge of different financial accounting models e.g., accrual and cash accounting, asset versus recurrent costing, costs benefits analysis, and whole-life costing.

5. Understanding of human resource management including knowledge of planning and developing of human resources, etc.

6. Contingency planning and existing observing system contingency plans.

7. Familiarity with WMO regulations, guidelines and activities (e.g., Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8), Guide to the Global Observing System (WMO - No. 488), Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO - No. 544), Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO - No. 1160), Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR), Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR), Instrument Testbeds etc.).

8. Familiarity with the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of the Global Observing System (EGOS-IP) and any national observing system strategies.

9. ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems).

Competency 2: Procure equipment

Competency description:

Procure instruments and the associated infrastructure (including communications systems, initial spares and staff training) as specified for the implementation, continuous operation and long-term sustainability of the observing programme.

Performance components:

1. Confirm procurement scope with the planning team, including availability of funds meeting capital and operational costs.

2. Conduct market survey to identify the suitable models of instruments meeting observation requirements.

3. Conduct engineering design and/or draw up functional specifications of the instruments to be procured.

4. Initiate tender or purchasing processes for equipment and infrastructure (obtain the necessary approvals) and prepare and issue procurement documents.

- Tender evaluation,- Purchase recommendation,- Appoint supplier.

5. Conduct factory acceptance tests.


6. Conduct site acceptance tests (if required).

7. Authorize payments subject to satisfactory fulfilment of the contract terms.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

1. Observing programme including meteorological instruments and communications systems installed in the observing network.

2. Observing technology options (Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8)).

3. Information Communications Technology (ICT) options.

4. National and organizational procurement rules and guidelines.

5. Project Management (especially with significant procurement projects).

6. ISO 31000 (Risk management: principles and guidelines on implementation).

7. Occupational safety and health requirements for instruments and systems.

Competency 3: Select and acquire sites

Competency description:

Select, acquire and commission observing sites for installation of instruments and communications systems.

Performance Components:

1. Identify suitable site for long term observations which meets observational requirements. (e.g., Conduct site survey to ensure representative measurements of the required variables can be taken to satisfy the data requirements of relevant WMO Application Areas).

2. Detailed site planning and site acquisition. [Ensure reliable power supply, communications, ascertain best form(s) of communications (satellite, copper cable, optical fibre, microwave link, GPRS, private wire), road access, site exposure, granting of site lease, acquisition of formal land allocation notification, etc.].

3. Prepare site/enclosure (e.g., civil works: clear and level the site, establish power, communications, fencing of site, road access, etc.).

4. Provide site plan, layout diagrams of observing equipment, power supply, communication links, etc.

5. Conduct joint site inspection and acceptance tests.

6. [Confirm site conditions, e.g., flatness of site, earthing conditions (< 10 ohms) for lightning protection, low EM wave background for lightning location detector, quality of power supply, communications bandwidth, roadways, fencing.]

7. Complete the handover of site (e.g., obtain site acceptance certificates).

8. Prepare and submit site metadata to WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) via the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review (OSCAR) Tool.

Knowledge and skills requirements


1. Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8) (e.g., Part 1, Chapter 1, in particular Section 1.3, and Annex 1.B, WMO/ISO Siting Classification for Surface Observing Stations on Land; Annex 1.C: Station exposure description).

2. WIGOS, in particular OSCAR requirements and data submission process.

3. Information Communications Technology (ICT).

4. Site leasing process and negotiation skills.

5. Project Management.

6. Occupational safety and health requirements.

Competency 4: Install network components


Install, test and commission major8 components of observing networks (e.g. weather radars, vertical wind profilers).


1. Assemble, test and calibrate network components (e.g., instruments, communications, support systems) before transport to site.

2. Transport network components to site or coordinate delivery by supplier.

3. Install network components and carry out user acceptance tests.

4. Ensure training is conducted to meet user or operational requirements. (Including Standard Operating Procedures and instructions, systems manuals, wiring diagrams, etc.).

5. Complete site classification for variable(s) concerned, prepare and submit instrumentation metadata to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) via the Observing Systems Capability, Analysis and Review (OSCAR) Tool.

6. Switch network components to operational mode.

8 Those which comprise a significant investment for an organization, and so require a structured project management approach, as opposed to the implementation of minor pieces of observing infrastructure, the competencies for which are covered under Instrumentation competencies.



1. Understanding of general meteorology as described in the Basic Instruction Package for Meteorological Technician (BIP-MT) including meteorological codes, and World Meteorological Organization Information System (WIS) set-up.

2. Observing programme including existing network components or new components to be installed in the observing network.

3. Careful handling of network components, including during transportation.


5. Correct and safe use of mechanical and electrical tools.


7. Occupation safety and health requirements.

Competency 5: Manage the network operation


Manage the observing network (observations, instrument calibration and maintenance, etc.) to ensure its continuous operation and timely delivery of quality observations.


1. Implement network maintenance (preventive, corrective, adaptive), site inspection and instrument calibration programmes9 to ensure correct and sustainable functioning of all equipment.

2. Develop and employ quality assurance tools (for regular diagnosis of system functions and parameters) for all instrumentation both in-situ and remote sensing.

3. Develop and maintain a data quality monitoring system (for example, manual and/or automated data QC systems) to ensure data traceability and metadata accuracy.

4. Coordinate with external sources (partners, volunteers and other 3rd party sources such as crowd sourcing) regarding the provision of their data to ensure data quality and homogeneity of the integrated network.

5. Prepare contingency plans for network operation and data acquisition including periodic testing of effectiveness.

6. Monitor network performance using appropriate tools and schemes and devise indicators to measure network performance (e.g., data availability, timeliness).

7. Document all operational procedures (e.g., network maintenance, instrument calibration, data QC algorithms, contingency plans, etc.).

8. Maintain an asset register.

9 Including for remote sensing equipment: note, for example, detailed guidance on maintenance of radars and wind profilers is given in Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation – (WMO - No. 8), Part II, Chapter 7, Section 7.7 and Operational Aspects of Wind Profilers Radars – (WMO/TD No. 1196), Section 4 respectively.



1. Meteorological instruments and communications systems installed in the observing network.

2. Familiarity with WMO guidelines and regulations on meteorological observations (e.g., Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO - No. 8), Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO - No. 1160), WIGOS Framework Implementation Plan, etc.).

3. Detailed knowledge of operational programme management and organizational structure, etc.

4. Contingency plans (to ensure continuity of the observing network).

5. Asset management standards e.g., ISO 55000 and Global Forum on Maintenance and Asset Management (GFMAM).

6. Occupation safety and health requirements for the observing network.

Competency 6: Manage the observing programme


Manage the observing programme (technical, financial and human resources, etc.) to ensure observing programme requirements are met safely and sustainably.


1. Develop financial and human resource plans and secure the resources that ensure sustainability of the observing programme.

2. Regularly evaluate and re-assess staff performance and provide on-going training (in liaison with the Training Section if necessary) to ensure maintenance of competency of all staff involved in the observing programme.

3. Co-ordinate with users and as required update data requirements of the observing programme (e.g., real-time observations, NWP applications and climate monitoring).

4. Regularly review short-term and long-term goals of the observing programme, identify areas for its continuous improvement (e.g., improved standardization, network optimization and development).

5. Explore and implement technical solutions to address improvement areas identified taking into account technological change of instrumentation and data communication methods.

6. Promote awareness and compliance of all staff with occupational safety and health requirements.



1. Financial planning including knowledge of different financial accounting models e.g., accrual and cash accounting, asset versus recurrent costing, costs benefits analysis, and whole-life costing.

2. Detailed knowledge of programme monitoring and evaluation techniques.

3. Understanding of human resource management including knowledge of performance management and developing of human resources, etc.

4. Meteorological instrumentation and Information Communications Technology (ICT).

5. Familiarity with WMO regulations, guidelines and activities [e.g., WMO Technical Regulations (WMO - No. 49), Guide on the Global Observing System (WMO - No. 488), Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO - No. 544), Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO - No. 1160), Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR), etc.].

6. Occupation safety and health requirements.

______________

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX IV, p. 1

ANNEX IVMISSION, VISION, OUTCOMES AND STRATEGIES:

FUTURE OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEASUREMENTS WITHIN WIGOS

Under the vision for the WIGOS community and the environmental measurements it seeks to achieve:

Mission:

Fit-for-purpose environmental measurements through leadership, standards and guidance.

Vision:

The WIGOS measurement community is the recognized source of information and guidance on performing measurements for environmental intelligence.

Desired Outcomes:

(a) The WIGOS measurement community are esteemed experts that gather and disseminate knowledge on measurements.

(b) Users and providers understand measurement quality and how fit-for-purpose measurements are achieved.

(c) Users and providers understand the importance of the measurement process in developing environmental intelligence.

(d) Users and providers of Essential Climate Variables are committed to measurement traceability.

(e) The potential, quality and performance characteristics of emerging measurement technologies and their products are documented in guidance material.

Strategies to achieve the Mission and Vision:

(a) Collaborate effectively with users and providers of measurements;

(b) Develop and promote the implementation of recognized measurement practices;

(c) Develop and provide effective standards and guidance material;

(d) Provide guidance for the implementation of new measurement technology; and

(e) Identify and characterize the potential of emerging measurements.

Shaping the Vision and Mission

Several new drivers are impacting on WMO and particularly WIGOS, including the opportunity and challenges of Big Data and its myriad of sources, the Minamata Convention, new generation satellites, and the pressing need to be more agile, innovative and informative. The CIMO MG meeting at Offenbach, in April 2016, provided an opportunity to discuss and then formulate the draft of a long term vision and mission of the measurement components of WIGOS. A concise vision, mission, desired outcomes and principle strategies on a page was the result.

At that CIMO MG meeting it was decided to take an agnostic approach to how the mission could be implemented structurally, but whatever structure came to pass it must enhance collaboration and cooperation and promote the role of measurements as an output.


At CIMO TECO 2016 in Madrid in September 2016, with wide representation from a number of other Commissions and Programmes, there was also an opportunity to have a two hour open forum to discuss the vision and mission on a page. There was a general consensus from those present that it had the right form but that it needed some expansion on the drivers and activities that should be pursued to achieve the desired outcomes.

At the CIMO Strategic Planning Meeting in Geneva in June 2017, the draft vision and mission “Future of environmental measurements within WIGOS” was thoroughly revised and updated, taking into account comments received from the presidents of technical commissions, the WIGOS vision document and the current context of the WMO constituent body reform.

Form of the Vision and Mission

This vision and mission is for nearly 25 years (2040) hence is necessarily limited in detail on planning, tactics, goals and concrete data forms, but does focus on ensuring the key elements of achieving fit-for-purpose measurements as a foundation element of environmental intelligence regardless of what the future brings. The concise language was designed to be relatively easy to use as a litmus test for any future work for those developing, enhancing and encouraging measurement practises in support of environmental intelligence.

The foundation of any organization with the aim to be an effective high-quality environmental information service is access to a community of esteemed experts with a fundamental understanding of the science and application of the processes of measurement and its ultimate output: fit-for-purpose data. In the current organizational context of WMO and its priority WIGOS, CIMO is but one of the current Commissions and Programmes involved in developing processes of measurement for the environmental monitoring elements. So under the framework of WIGOS where does the user go for information to find out if a data stream is fit for their purpose? This vision, mission and strategy is not focused on the future of CIMO and is agnostic to there being a CIMO in the future. Rather it is a vision and mission for a strong, vital, agile and integrated cadre, the WIGOS measurement community, to further the aims of, and be the source of information on all WIGOS measurement data streams.

Hence the vision, mission and strategies stated at the start of this document cannot be just for the existing CIMO community, but should be for the WIGOS measurement community made up of all the relevant current Commissions and partner programmes (GAW, GCW, WCRP, WHYCOS, etc.).

Overarching new and existing drivers

Change of focus: Methods to Outputs

The time when a meteorological measurement10 is primarily a measurement through observation by a human observer is now consigned to history. As has the time when one meteorological datum can be a representative of a quantity with assumed characteristics of assumed quality. Instead, the majority of the measurements used for environmental intelligence are automated, from numerous sources made up of multiple component and processes, and a diverse range of measurement methods and technologies. Furthermore, it is now understood by many that meta data associated with a datum is critical to the understanding of the information.

Most importantly there is now a rapid acceleration and divergence in the measurement technologies (instrumentation, data dissemination and amalgamation to provide other 10 Measurement - process of experimentally obtaining one or more quantity values that can reasonably be attributed to a quantity. Note: The use of the word ‘observation’ or ‘observations’ has been deliberately avoided as it is a WMO re-definition of the term ‘result of a measurement’ and sometimes is equated to measurement.Result of measurement - set of quantity values being attributed to a measurand together with any other available relevant information. Measurand - quantity intended to be measured.


measurements, etc.) that explicitly requires all involved in the data and information value chain to re-evaluate the methods of standardization from a measurement being represented by instrumentation (e.g. satellite, AWS, radar, ceilometer) to the quantity as an output (e.g. vertical temperature, vertical wind, temperature and humidity, rainfall, cloud base or aerosol profile).

Quality and fit-for-purpose

The assignment of the quality of a measurement has always been dependent on being fit for a user’s requirements. In the past the focus on making all measurements fit for climate analysis has dominated the measurement regime. That is no longer the case with tiering of networks (e.g. climate, weather, aviation), 3rd party data availability, and crowd sourcing. As the methods and sources of the same measurement, for example, ‘temperature’, become more heterogeneous there is a temptation to use an instrumental method (if known) to estimate the quality through assumptions, rather than finding a quantitative measure based on the facts of the process of measurements. One solution to replacing belief with knowledge for some quantities is traceability11 where there is a framework of physics and chemistry metrology. However, some existing measurements and new measurements being integrated into the WIGOS framework either require a significant amount of work to achieve traceability (e.g. satellite radiances), or have yet to consider traceability (e.g. 3rd party data), or where traceability is impracticable (e.g. crowd sourcing, camera imagery). A potential substitute where traceability is not feasible, is a combination of meta data and ancillary co-located reference measurements that can be used without human interpretation. As a result, to serve the user community, a clear and readily visible source material must be available to provide assurance for the user that the datum or data series they use is fit-for-purpose and will indeed serve their needs.

Big Data - opportunities and issues

The meteorological community has been at the forefront in contributing to ‘Big Data’ initially through its rapid take up of space and surface-based remote sensing, and now is actively pursuing 3rd party data sources and crowd sourcing. The volumes are increasing exponentially and have a velocity (speed and direction) unheard of in the past, ultimately providing opportunities for greater insight into the nature of environmental phenomena in increasingly small scales in space and time. However, the down sides are inconsistency in the information content, and particularly how they impact the data quality on information extraction. Perhaps, the most significant issue for the environmental measurement community is to use belief and assumptions rather than understanding and knowledge, largely because the data are loosely related to meta data that provides only a partial description of the measurand, leading to an increase in false conclusions. A mitigation of the risk in some cases can be provided by making sure all the requirements for traceability accompany what was in the past a single datum (e.g. a relative humidity value in a SYNOP message). However, in doing so would in turn expand the volume of data for the most basic of quantities by a factor of three as traceability mandates including uncertainty and degrees of freedom.

The language and integration

Given the focus on integration in WIGOS, does the distribution of activities on measurement standardization and guidance through a number of Commissions and associated agencies make sense for the future? While the CIMO Guide provides a focal point on measurement characteristics and methods, the large number of Commissions tends to lead to well-intentioned duplication and may not be efficiently using the available expertize. Furthermore, linkages between Commissions may not be as effective for communicating user requirements, as each Commission has developed its own vocabulary on processes for measurement. Integration in WIGOS cannot succeed unless all the relevant communities use the same 11 Traceability – property of a measurement result whereby the result can be related to a reference through a documented unbroken chain of calibrations, each contributing to the measurement uncertainty.Note: It is important to understand that traceability is the property of the result of a measurement not an instrument or laboratory calibration report.


vocabulary with the same semantic intent, and can communicate effectively with the innovators, industry and users. It is of little value, if Commissions’ processes of measurement are translated by the CIMO Editorial Board into the international recognized standard vocabulary that remains outside the comprehension of the source community (e.g. is it accuracy or uncertainty?). Hence in continuing the implementation of WIGOS there is considerable work to do in standardization of the language of measurement.

Strategic elements

The key strategic elements to achieve the Mission and Vision are elaborated in the following paragraphs taking as examples CIMO activities.

(a) Collaborate effectively with users and providers of measurements

The current method of providing focal points for communication and collaboration between the Commissions and Programmes will continue.

The value of TECO and METEOREX/MetExpo in providing a venue to initiate, promote and disseminate methods of measurement has been demonstrated on a number of occasions and must be continued, as well as the partnership with HMEI.

The value in the collaboration with BIPM and associated NMIs has been proven in the last four years and demonstrated at CIMO TECO 2016, and hence the strengthening of the collaboration must be pursued.

The past ECV focus of the CIMO Guide must be re-examined and other user requirements incorporated that enable a user to determine what type of measurement processes are required to achieve a fit-for-purpose result; for example, incorporating aviation requirements and also applications that will achieve fit-for-purpose results from 3rd party and crowd sourced data. These activities would be included in a significant revision of the Annex 1.E in the CIMO Guide, Part I, Chapter 1.

While there is now a significant volume of the CIMO Guide on space-based (satellite) measurements there have been limited advances in integrating satellite and surface-based data to produce new measurements. In particular the bi-directional utility of downward and upward looking microwave radiometers needs to be investigated as there have been significant advances in surface-based microwave technology.

(b)Develop and promote the implementation of recognized measurement practices

The continuation of intercomparisons is essential to address world-wide operational traceability, like the regular 5-yearly IPCs, and to improve knowledge of the components of uncertainty in the process of measurement (e.g. SPICE, screen, ceilometer and radiosonde intercomparisons). Also essential for the sustainment of quality management are the interlaboratory comparisons and training courses for continuing to develop an understanding of the fundamental aspects of good metrology and measurement practise, and they are essential in developing a common vocabulary across measurement disciplines. Promotion of these essential activities needs to be communicated to the highest levels within Member organizations.

Regardless of whether the existing technical commission structures remain or not it is essential that the principles and practices of standardization are promoted by effective liaison, and where required co-development of standards with partner global agencies (ISO, BIPM).

The most recent CIMO TECOs have shown their value in both promoting good measurement practices and introducing new methods for active discussion and dissemination within the


measurement community. There is extra benefit from a CIMO TECO when there is participation from other measurement communities (e.g. surface meteorology, air chemistry, marine, hydrology and space weather) as new technologies, both instrumental and algorithmic, become visible, and interaction can be direct and immediate. As an example, exploring synergies between the radar and space weather communities should be advanced. Hence any future TECO for the WIGOS measurement community must allow for diversity in measurement output, all the while promoting traceability in any new or merged measurement stream.

The provision of competencies for the processes of measurement must continue. While the focus in the past, with good outcomes, has been to provide a competency framework at developing levels of NHMS. The focus in the future should insist on a basic level of understanding of what makes a measurement fit-for-purpose and what is required to sustain operations and outputs.

An understanding of the fundamentals of measurement must be imparted to senior leaders in NMHS. The dynamic nature of position rotation in NMHS can lead to incorrect decision making by the use of belief or assumptions rather than being based on a knowledge of measurement fundamentals.

(c) Develop, and provide effective standards and guidance material

The CIMO Guide and other WIGOS documentation are dynamic documents that need to be updated as knowledge improves. IOM reports (or their equivalent) are an effective way to document investigations, technical findings and new methods of measurements, must remain an integral part of the WIGOS measurement community’s outputs, and in particular, documents that delineate the transition from research to operations for products based on new measurements.

The liaison with BIPM and collaboration with ISO are fundamental pathways to the development of standards and guidance materials and it is essential that collaboration pathways are utilised effectively and strengthen where needed.

As in strategic element (a), the Annex 1.E of the Part I, Chapter 1 of the regular revision of the CIMO Guide (or its equivalent) is a key to access existing and new standards and guidance.

The impact of the future updates to the JCGM 100: Evaluation of measurement data - Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty of Measurement (so called ISO GUM) is of particular concern as the methodology of calculating measurement uncertainties moves from the calculus of variances to a Bayesian probability distribution framework. The environmental measurement community has significantly benefited, including financially, from the introduction of ISO GUM as a key component of good measurement practice. Specific guidance material needs to be developed to ensure that these benefits are not only secured but even enhanced, in spite of the perceived complexities of the new approach for computing measurement uncertainties.

The work of the Regional Instrument Centres, both of the atmospheric and marine variants, must continue as should increasing the collaboration on the propagation of traceability with the atmospheric chemistry calibration centres. While likely to be difficult, if a suitable measurement culture exists, the role of the Regional Instrument Centres and their client base should be expanded to include active and passive remote sensing measurements when methods of traceability to SI become available for those measurement types.

Continuing to link an operational measurement to a physical or chemical definition of a quantity needs to continue. For example: one phenomena in particular, clouds, has proven to be difficult; determining physical definitions of cloud base height, cloud amount and type has been started recently to come up with definition to allow traceability and this must be progressed. Similarly, the standards associated with soil moisture and evaporation will need to be developed and propagated.


The positive impact of effective guidance material on the importance of the processes of measurement and supporting infrastructure cannot be underestimated, as shown by the recent initiative of MeteoSwiss on the importance of intercomparisons using the recent International Pyrheliometer Comparison. More visual, concise and to the point material needs to be developed and distributed widely within NMHSs and environmental agencies that are, or will be, providers of 3rd party data. The effectiveness of social media and web-based portals can also assist in providing information to the myriad of potential providers of crowd sourced data.

(d) Provide guidance for the implementation of new measurement technology

Testbeds, Lead Centres, expert teams and Regional Instrument Centres will continue to play a crucial role in transitioning new science to operations. Intercomparisons’ primary role has been to provide traceability but they also play a role in introduction of new science and methods on the pathway to operation, and should continue to be used, particularly for the rapidly advancing detector science and engineering used in in situ methods, as well as, passive and active remote sensing.

Measurement community TECO-like fora must continue to be a venue that enables visibility of the new science to be considered for operations. The most recent candidates are: use of infrared all-sky imagery combined with ceilometers to provide cloud height, amount and vertical distribution based on physical processes (e.g. radiative transfer), and use of microwave transmissions for communications being used to derive rainfall.

Alternate approaches to increasing the value of new technologies must also be evaluated, including inviting external experts to examine the potential measurement methods for operational use. Benefits can also be expected from a melding in a measurement sense, for example from melding space and surface-based remote streams.

Linkages between WMO agencies and partners that focus on the science behind environmental physical and chemical processes must continue and be strengthened to ensure innovative methods of measurement and associated quantities are developed, and the resultant environmental intelligence can be introduced with confidence by operational service areas. To achieve this the likely attendees of measurement TECO must be expanded further.

(e) Identify and characterize the potential of emerging measurements

When a new or alternative process of measurement is available, to ensure that its potential integration into the future environmental information chain is effective and efficient, the measurand must be critically assessed to determine if it is a traceable quantity, and at what organizational infrastructure cost is required to be fit for purpose for known applications.

If an emerging measurement technology is not traceable then the user community must be made aware. While the resultant data are of significant value, the risks associated with their use must be available for consideration. IOM reports (or their equivalent) and specific reports are ideal vehicles for dissemination to the measurement community, but meta data databases like OSCAR, and short reference publications and handouts need to be developed. Alternative methods to publish measurement knowledge include sponsoring workshops on emerging technologies for operational use and the invitation of an external experts, from a parallel science stream or the NMI community, to provide a relevant perspective.

Once these emerging technologies are used in operations, the character of the measurements must be added to the CIMO Guide as a matter of cause. Other dissemination vehicles include their promotion through innovative award schemes like the Prof. Dr Vilho Vaisala Awards, outreach documentation of the Testbeds and Lead Centres, as well as measurement community TECO.

________________

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX V

ANNEX V

DRAFT NEW STRUCTURE FOR CIMO(Outcome of CIMO MG-15, Geneva, March 2018)

In collab. with CBS - Lead by CBS

IPET- Aircraft-Based

Measurements

In collab. with CBS –Lead by CIMO

IPET- Operational

Weather Radars

ET – Upper Air Measurements

CIMO Editorial Board

ET – Capacity Development & Outreach

ET – Metrology

ET – Surface Measurements

TL – Radiosonde Performance Monitoring

TT – Transition to Automation

TT – Upper Air Intercomparison

TT –Classification

SchemesTT – Radiation

ReferencesTT –

Education on Measurement for Managers

TT – Table 1E of CIMO Guide

Coordinator 4

Coordinator 5

Coordinator 3

Coordinator 2

Coordinator 1

CIMO Management Group

PresidentVice-president

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX VI

ANNEX VIACTION LIST

Action Nb

Para. of Fin.

Report

Action required Responsible Deadline Status/remarks

1 2.2.2 Finalise Sustained Performance Classification, if not approved by CIMO-17

TT-Class Schemes October 2018 Include in work plan.

2 2.2.2 Develop outreach material on the benefits of maintaining class 4 and 5 stations and guidance on the implementation of the classification

TT-Class Schemes October 2018 Include in work plan.

3 2.2.3 Develop training material on transitioning to automation

TT-Transition to Auto

October 2018 Include in work plan.

4 2.2.5 Develop guidance material on soil moisture measurement.

ET-Surface October 2018 Include in work plan.

5 2.2.6 Resolve BUFR reporting problems for qualitative present weather variables.


6 2.2.8 Update CIMO Guide in the light of the SPICE findings


7 2.2.9 Add UV filter intercomp to list of future intercomps Secretariat July 20188 2.2.13 France to be invited to provide presentation at TECO

on aerosol/ash intercomparison feasibilitySecretariat June 2018

9 2.2.16 Decide where IPET-ABO should reside (CIMO or CBS)

CIMO-MG May 2018

10 2.2.22 Invite PMOD to propose governance structure for the WISG and

President May 2018

11 2.3.2 Publish CIMO Guide update on RWPs Secretariat October 201812 2.3.9 Explore options for rapid outreach mechanism ET-Education &

OutreachOctober 2018 Include in work

plan.13 2.3.11 Develop guidance material on avoiding blockage of ET-Upper Air October 2018 Include in work

CIMO MG-15, ANNEX VI, p. 2

Action Nb

Para. of Fin.

Report


RWPs by wind turbines. plan.14 2.3.12 Liaise with CBS regarding required bandwidth for

radiosonde operationsCIMO-MG ?? This is not a CIMO

thing, beyond advising bandwidth required for a single radiosonde.

15 2.3.13 At CIMO-17, urge all Members to take an active part in national delegations to WRC-19

CIMO-MG October 2018

1616a

2.4.2, 3.4.11

Ensure active participation at Euramet Research Council meeting in May, and promote continued engagement of EMPIR with CIMO activities

President, Secretariat

May 2018

17 2.4.5 Submit recommendation to EC giving authority to CIMO to assess RICs and subsequently submit RIC nomination process and RIC ToR for CIMO-17 approval.

Secretariat May 2018 and July 2018

EC and CIMO-17

18 2.4.10 Prepare a draft CIMO-17 Recommendation on changes to the CIMO Guide. (Title change, change of Parts to Volumes, new edition including Volume on GCW)

Secretariat July 2018

19 2.4.12 Update guidelines for CIMO Guide authors with proposed changes and post on website

Secretariat October 2018

20 2.4.14 Draft letter from SG to PR Russian Federation inviting nomination of a replacement for Dr Kats as TL-RPM

Secretariat July 2018 (not before and not after)

21 2.4.15 Make special efforts to recruit experts on radiosondes to ET-Upper Air

CIMO-MG October 2018

2222a

2.4.17,4.3.1

Implement long-term changes to the ICA feedback loop

Secretariat June 2018


Action Nb

Para. of Fin.

Report


23 2.4.19 Draft a CIMO-17 recommendation on development of e-training, e-learning material using the ICA.


24 2.4.22 Arrange for detailed competencies to be included in CIMO Guide and prepare EC-70 Recommendation to include high level competencies in WMO Tech Regs.


25 2.5.6 Draft CIMO-17 Recommendation on Gender Balance


26 2.6.3 Draft email to Korean TB/LC focal point regarding perceived shortcomings in performance.


27 2.6.5 Acknowledge TB/LC reconfirmation in CIMO-17 documentation


28 2.6.7 Draft letter from SG to PR Netherlands advising that nomination of Cabauw Testbed has been successful


29 2.6.8 Draft letter from SG to PR Kazakhstan advising that nomination of Almaty has been unsuccessful and suggesting nominating it as a RIC if it satisfies the criteria.


30 2.6.9 Make agreed changes to TB/LC reporting form and post it on the website.


31 2.6.13 Develop further guidance material on low cost AWS. ET-Surface October 2018 Include in work plan.

32 2.6.16 Make AWS tender template available for testing on the IMOP website and invite beta-testers to use it and provide feedback.


33 3.2.3 Draft a CIMO-17 Resolution on the new vision and mission statement.


34 3.4.3 Contact Chupungyeong LC focal point and seek Secretariat June 2018


Action Nb

Para. of Fin.

Report


clarification of rationale for developing ISO 2333435 3.4.6 Conduct further review of ISO 23436: Visibility

MetersCIMO MG June 2018

36 3.4.6 Draft letter from SG to ISO advising that WMO wishes ISO 28902-4: Particle backscatter lidar to be developed and a Common WMO/ISO standard.


37 3.4.6 Propose a solution to issues being experienced in regard to ISO 9060: Solar radiation instruments

Vice-President, Secretariat, Dr Finsterle.

June 2018

38 3.4.7 Draft proposal clarifying WMO-internal approval of common WMO-ISO standards. Submit for review by CIMO MG, then draft CIMO-17 recommendation.


39 3.4.10 Develop list of potential collaborative projects between WMO CIMO and Euramet EMPIR.

Vice-president and Secretariat

May 2018

40 3.4.13 Invite HMEI to nomination representatives for CIMO teams that would act as such for the whole inter-sessional period.

Secretariat September 2018

41 4.1.1 Taking prioritised list of future CIMO ET activities into consideration, develop draft ET work plans and send them to CIMO MG members for agreement prior to CIMO-17


42 4.2.2 Draft email from President to PTCs advising that vice-president will be in touch soon to request name of representative with whom to liaise on transitioning to future commission structure.

Secretariat May 2018

43 4.2.2 Contact PTCs to request name of representative with whom to liaise on transitioning to future commission structure.

Vice-President June 2018


Action Nb

Para. of Fin.

Report


44 4.3.2 Draft EC resolution on formation of IPET-ABM and submit to EC-70


45 5.1.2 Draft agenda for CIMO-17 to be refined and provided to President for approval.


46 5.1.3 Advise secretariat of availability to assist with preparations for TECO and CIMO-17, to serve on MG after CIMO-17 and advise preferences for ET involvement.

CIMO MG May 2018

47 5.2.1 Invite all team chairs to provide a TECO poster on the team’s activities during the intersessional period.


48 5.2.1 Ensure TECO oral programme includes no 1 minute poster presentations on the last day.


49 5.2.3 Provide suggestions for TECO discussion session topics to Secretariat

CIMO MG May 2018

50 5.2.3 Invite Dr Michelson to provide a keynote address at TECO-2018


51 5.3.1 Draft a list of recipient names for CIMO awards, provide to MG Members, and organise teleconference to make final selections.


52 6.1.1 Eliminate ambiguities and conflicting advice between OSCAR and the CIMO Guide Table 1E

TT-Table 1E October 2018 Include in work plan.

53 6.1.2 Communicate with CBS President regarding CIMO representation on CBS IPET-OSDE.

President June 2018

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